Carlos Alcaraz in race for French Open fitness, set for medical test after injury

Carlos Alcaraz faces a race against time to defend his French Open title after a wrist injury. Crucial medical tests in the coming days will determine whether he can compete at Roland-Garros next month.

In Short

• Alcaraz's French Open title defence is uncertain due to injury
• Medical tests will determine his participation in Roland-Garros
• The Spaniard remains hopeful of recovering in time for the event

Carlos Alcaraz’s French Open title defence has been thrown into doubt after a right wrist injury disrupted his clay-court preparations. With key tournaments missed and fitness concerns lingering, the Spaniard now faces a race against time ahead of Roland-Garros.

The defending two-time champion confirmed that medical tests over the next few days will determine whether he can feature in the Grand Slam, which begins next month. Speaking at the Laureus Awards in Madrid, where he was seen with his wrist immobilised, Alcaraz admitted uncertainty over his participation.

“We’ll see,” Alcaraz said when asked about his chances of playing the French Open.

“The next test will be crucial. We’ve been trying to do everything we can to make sure it goes well. I’m trying to be very patient. We have a few tests in the next few days and then we will see how the injury is, and what the next steps will be,” he added.

Despite the setback, the 22-year-old remains hopeful of recovery. “For now, I’ve been trying to stay positive, to stay upbeat, even though these days have become a bit too long,” said Alcaraz, who was named Laureus World Sportsman of the Year.

The timing of the injury has added to the concern. Alcaraz recently lost his world No.1 ranking to Jannik Sinner after his defeat in the Monte Carlo Masters final. His withdrawal from Barcelona also ended any immediate chance of reclaiming the top spot, making the upcoming clay season even more crucial.

HOW DID ALCARAZ GET INJURED?

Alcaraz’s injury concerns surfaced during the Barcelona Open, where he required medical attention in his opening-round win over Otto Virtanen. Despite winning the match in straight sets, the discomfort forced him to withdraw from the tournament shortly after.

The Spaniard also pulled out of the Madrid Open as a precaution, opting to prioritise recovery over risking further damage. With the Italian Open next on the calendar, his participation there remains uncertain as well.

WILL ALCARAZ PLAY FRENCH OPEN 2026?

The French Open main draw is set to begin on May 24, but Alcaraz’s involvement hinges on the results of upcoming medical evaluations. The next few days are expected to provide clarity on the severity of the wrist issue.

While the injury is not being viewed as long-term at this stage, the tight schedule and importance of the tournament mean that caution will be key. A decision on his participation is likely to be made closer to the event, depending on how well he responds to treatment.

- Ends