Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz has announced that he will not compete in next month’s French Open after medical examinations revealed a wrist injury that requires caution. The world No. 2 made the decision public on Friday via a post on his social media platforms, stating that after the test results were reviewed, the safest course of action is to sit out both the Rome Masters and Roland Garros while doctors monitor his recovery and determine when he can safely return to competition.
Alcaraz’s withdrawal means he will be unable to defend the title he captured in a dramatic fashion last year, when he edged out Jannik Sinner in a five‑set thriller that lasted over five and a half hours. That final, which ended 4‑6, 6‑7 (4‑7), 6‑4, 7‑6 (7‑3), 7‑6 (10‑2), is widely regarded as one of the greatest Grand Slam finals in recent memory, showcasing Alcaraz’s resilience and mental toughness under extreme pressure.
The Spanish prodigy’s recent résumé includes regaining the world No. 1 ranking by winning his second US Open title in 2025, as well as securing his first Australian Open crown earlier this year, which made him the youngest player ever to complete a career Grand Slam at 22 years and 258 days old. Those achievements cemented his status as the sport’s dominant force on all surfaces.
In contrast, Jannik Sinner reclaimed the top spot in the ATP rankings after defeating Alcaraz in the Monte Carlo Masters final just days before the Spaniard’s wrist was examined following his opening‑round victory over Otto Virtanen at the Barcelona Open. Sinner’s win in Monte Carlo, combined with his recent successes at the Australian Open, Wimbledon, and the 2024 US Open, positioned him on the cusp of completing his own career Grand Slam, a feat that would be accelerated by Alcaraz’s absence from Paris.
Alcaraz initially expressed optimism about the possibility of playing in Paris during the Laureus awards ceremony, where he was honored as Sportsman of the Year. He told reporters, “We’ll see.
The next medical test will be crucial.” However, subsequent test results confirmed that his injury would keep him out of both the French Open and the Madrid Open, and also forced him to miss the Rome Masters, a key preparatory event on clay. Sinner learned of Alcaraz’s withdrawal during a post‑match interview after his second‑round victory over Benjamin Bonzi at the Madrid Open. He remarked, “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 highlighted the significance of the injury, noting that it is one of the first major setbacks Alcaraz has faced in his career. She explained, “We felt sorry for him missing Madrid, the biggest tournament in his home country. To then miss Rome and Roland Garros as well is a huge blow.
It shows how serious the injury is, and it’s a massive missed opportunity for him while giving Sinner a chance to extend his lead at No. 1.” The decision to pull out of the French Open has broader implications for the tennis calendar. With Alcaraz out, the draw opens up for other contenders, and Sinner’s path to a potential career Grand Slam becomes clearer.
The absence of the defending champion also impacts ticket sales, broadcast ratings, and fan expectations, as many had hoped to witness a repeat showdown between the two rising stars. Medical experts stress that wrist injuries in tennis can be complex, often requiring a period of rest, physiotherapy, and gradual return to full training. Rushing back too soon can risk chronic problems and long‑term damage, which is why Alcaraz’s team opted for a conservative approach. The player’s long‑term health and ability to compete at the highest level across all four Grand Slam events remain the top priority.
Fans can stay updated on Alcaraz’s rehabilitation progress through his official channels and through regular updates from the ATP. Meanwhile, the tennis world will turn its attention to the upcoming tournaments in Rome and Paris, where new storylines will emerge and other players will have the chance to make their mark. For those looking to follow the action, Sky Sports offers live coverage of ATP and WTA events, as well as streaming options through the NOW platform and the Sky Sports app, providing subscribers with extensive access to live sport throughout the season.