Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz has announced that he will not be taking part in the upcoming French Open after medical examinations revealed a wrist problem that forces him to sit out the tournament. The 22‑year‑old Spaniard, who currently holds the world No. 2 ranking, shared the news on his social‑media accounts on Friday, explaining that the decision was made out of caution and a desire to protect his long‑term health. He wrote, "Following 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." This statement makes clear that Alcaray's withdrawal applies not only to the French Open but also to the upcoming Rome Masters, effectively ending his chances to defend the title he captured in an unforgettable final last year.
Alcaraz's 2024 French Open victory was a dramatic five‑set battle against fellow Spaniard Jannik Sinner, where he saved three championship points before prevailing 4‑6, 6‑7 (4‑7), 6‑4, 7‑6 (7‑3), 7‑6 (10‑2). The match lasted five hours and 29 minutes and is widely regarded as one of the greatest finals in the tournament's history. That triumph added a second Grand Slam crown to his résumé and cemented his status as a rising star capable of challenging the sport's elite on any surface.
However, the wrist injury that now sidelines him has also forced him out of the Madrid Open, a key event on home soil, and casts doubt over his participation in the remainder of the clay season. The injury appears to have been aggravated during Alcaraz's opening match at the Barcelona Open, where he defeated Finland's Otto Virtanen before receiving treatment for his wrist. Shortly thereafter, Sinner reclaimed the world No. 1 ranking by beating Alcaraz in the Monte Carlo Masters final, a result that underscored the intense rivalry between the two players.
Sinner, who has already secured Australian Open titles in 2023 and 2024, a Wimbledon crown in 2023, and the US Open in 2024, now stands poised to complete a career Grand Slam should he capture the French Open this year. When asked about his condition at the Laureus Sports Awards—where he was honored as Sportsman of the Year—Alcaraz remained cautiously optimistic, saying, "We'll see. The next medical test will be crucial." Unfortunately, subsequent test results confirmed that he would miss both the Rome Masters and Roland Garros, depriving him of the opportunity to defend his title and to compete for a third consecutive Grand Slam victory in the same calendar year.
The withdrawal has significant implications for the men's tour. With Alcaraz out, the path to the world No. 1 ranking becomes clearer for Sinner, who expressed genuine disappointment for the sport but also heartfelt wishes for Alcaraz's speedy recovery. In a post‑match interview after beating Benjamin Bonzi in the second round of the Madrid Open, Sinner said, "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 clay. I wish him to recover as fast as possible." Commentators have also weighed in on the broader impact of the injury.
Naomi Broady of Sky Sports Tennis noted, "You have to feel for him. It's one of his first really big, impactful injuries.
Missing Madrid was already a huge blow, but to also miss Rome and Roland Garros is a massive setback. It shows how serious the injury is, and it gives Sinner a chance to pull away as world No. 1." The sentiment reflects both sympathy for Alcaraz's misfortune and recognition of the shifting competitive landscape. Alcaraz's career, despite his youth, is already studded with remarkable achievements.
In addition to his French Open triumph, he reclaimed the world No. 1 spot after winning the US Open for the second time in 2025 and captured his maiden Australian Open title earlier this year, making him the youngest player ever to complete a career Grand Slam at 22 years and 258 days old. These milestones highlight his rapid ascent and the high expectations placed upon him by fans and analysts alike.
Looking ahead, Alcaraz will focus on rehabilitation and will likely target a return to competition later in the season, perhaps at the hard‑court swing in the United States or at the Asian swing, depending on his recovery timeline. The tennis community will be watching closely, hoping that the Spaniard can regain full fitness and return to the tour with the same intensity that has made him a fan favourite.
For now, the French Open will proceed without its defending champion, opening the draw for other contenders. The tournament, traditionally held at Stade Roland‑Garros in Paris, will feature a field eager to seize the opportunity left by Alcaraz's absence. While the clay courts will miss his dynamic footwork and powerful baseline play, the event promises to deliver high‑quality tennis and perhaps a new champion who can capitalize on the open field. Fans can stay updated on the latest developments, match scores, and player interviews through Sky Sports' various platforms, including the Sky Sports app, the NOW streaming service, and social media channels.
The network continues to offer extensive coverage of ATP and WTA events, ensuring that tennis enthusiasts have access to live action, highlights, and expert analysis throughout the season.