With the US Open title there for the taking, Carlos Alcaraz may have injured himself before it’s all even begun.
The four-time grand slam champion started his major-winning career in New York two years ago with victory over Casper Ruud.
With two Wimbledon’s and a French Open coming since last July, Alcaraz has since continued his 100% record in major finals.
The 21-year-old’s hard court form this year has been slightly out of whack however, with just one match and ultimately one defeat since the Olympics.
Alcaraz’s shock upset and outburst against Gael Monfils has cast doubt over whether he will be on form in Flushing.
With a US Open first round match against Australian qualifier Li Tu, the third seed this year was forced to stop his practice session early after rolling his ankle.
Carlos Alcaraz issues positive injury update after stopping his practice session
The Spaniard was hitting with Francisco Cerundolo before immediately stopping and leaving the court after sustaining a possible ankle injury.
Novak Djokovic was also forced off the practice court early after an intense session with Holger Rune.
Quizzed on his ankle, Alcaraz said in his US Open press conference: “Well, I think it is ok. You know, I just stopped my practice just for precaution.
I didn’t feel comfortable enough to keep practicing just in case if everything is going to be worse. But, you know, after a few hours later, I’m still feeling good, you know, my feet, so tomorrow I will try to be practicing again 100% without thinking about it, but today I’ll take care about it.”
As sighs of relief ring around the tennis world, Alcaraz is hoping to make it five in New York after being beaten in the semi-finals last year.
What is Carlos Alcaraz’s injury record like?
After a formidable summer of tennis titles, the 21-year-old has endured fewer bumps in the road this year, in comparison to his two closest rivals Djokovic and Jannik Sinner.
However, Alcaraz has had rather a lot of injury niggles throughout his career with 2023 a year where he was forced to miss the Australian Open as well as several Masters level tournaments.
Alcaraz’s somewhat concerning injury record could be understood as a natural by-product of a player who’s simply battled to the top of the game so quickly.
However, with the sheer number of different injuries he has sustained from abdominal, wrist, and foot problems, there might be cause for concern.
Alcaraz’s aggressive game is both the reason he is so successful, but has also likely left him more prone to physical problems.
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