Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz has announced that he will not take part in the upcoming French Open after medical examinations revealed a wrist injury that requires caution. The world number two made the decision public on Friday via a post on his social media accounts, explaining that the recent test results indicated it would be safest to sit out both the Rome Masters and Roland Garros while his condition is monitored. He wrote, "After the results of the tests carried out today, we have decided that the most prudent thing is to be cautious and not participate in Rome and Roland Garros, while we wait to assess the evolution to decide when we will return to the court." Alcaraz's withdrawal means that the seven‑time Grand Slam winner will be unable to defend the title he captured in an unforgettable final last year.
In that dramatic showdown he overcame Italy's Jannik Sinner after saving three championship points, eventually prevailing 4-6, 6-7 (4-7), 6-4, 7-6 (7-3), 7-6 (10-2) in a match that stretched to five hours and 29 minutes – widely regarded as one of the greatest finals in the tournament's history. The Spanish star's recent résumé is already packed with historic achievements. He reclaimed the world No. 1 ranking from Sinner by winning the US Open for a second time in 2025, and earlier this year he secured his maiden Australian Open crown, becoming the youngest player ever to complete a career Grand Slam at 22 years and 258 days old.
Sinner, meanwhile, had recently retaken the top spot after defeating Alcaraz in the Monte Carlo Masters final, a victory that came just two days before Alcaraz received treatment for his wrist following a win over Otto Virtanen at the Barcelona Open. The Italian's ascent was further bolstered by Alcaraz's subsequent absence from both the Madrid Open and the French Open. In a brief interview at the Laureus Sports Awards, where Alcaraz was honoured as Sportsman of the Year, he hinted at a possible return, saying, "We'll see.
The next medical test will be crucial." However, the latest assessments have confirmed that he must miss the second Grand Slam of the season as well as the preparatory Rome tournament. Alcaraz's exit opens a clear pathway for Sinner to complete the career Grand Slam, having already won the Australian Open twice, Wimbledon last year, and the US Open in 2024. Sinner learned of Alcaraz's withdrawal during his post‑match interview after beating Benjamin Bonzi in the second round of the Madrid Open, expressing disappointment for the sport: "It's sad for tennis.
As a competitor, I always want to play against the best in the world and he definitely is the best on this surface. I wish him a speedy recovery." Commentary from Sky Sports' tennis analyst Naomi Broady underscored the seriousness of the situation: "You have to feel for him. It's one of his first truly significant injuries. Missing Madrid, the biggest tournament in his home country, was already a blow, but having to sit out Rome and Roland Garros as well is a major setback.
It shows how serious the injury is that he's missing a Grand Slam. It's a huge missed opportunity for him and gives Sinner the chance to pull away as world No. 1." The withdrawal not only impacts Alcaraz's personal quest for another French Open crown but also reshapes the competitive landscape of men's tennis for the remainder of the season. With the Spaniard sidelined, the clay‑court circuit will likely see a shift in dynamics, giving other top players a chance to capitalize on the open draw.
Fans can continue to follow the unfolding drama through Sky Sports' extensive coverage, including live streams on the NOW platform and the Sky Sports app, which now offers more than 50% additional live sport at no extra charge. For those seeking highlights, match analysis, and in‑depth features, the Sky Sports app remains a comprehensive source. The tennis community will be watching closely for updates on Alcaraz's recovery, hoping that the young champion can return to form and re‑enter the race for future Grand Slam titles.