Carlos Alcaraz: New Rumors About Jannik Sinner’s Biggest Rival

Rumors are mounting about Carlos Alcaraz’s possible return to the court. The Spanish champion, who has been sidelined for nearly four months due to a serious wrist injury sustained in the spring, continues to be closely monitored as the season draws to a close, with the U.S. Open serving as his main goal.

The Murcia native’s last official appearance was in April. Since then, Spain’s No. 1 has been forced to take a long hiatus, causing him to miss two major tournaments: the French Open and Wimbledon. In recent hours, it was also officially confirmed that he has withdrawn from the Cincinnati Masters 1000, a decision that has inevitably fueled new doubts about the true status of his recovery.

It is precisely in this context that some rumors have emerged from Spain. According to reports from the newspaper La Verdad, Alcaraz has reportedly requested a wild card to participate in the ATP 250 in Winston-Salem, scheduled for August 22–29. The idea would be to use the tournament as a testing ground to regain match rhythm and get some playing time under his belt before the start of the U.S. Open, scheduled for August 30 through September 13.

Subsequent reports from other Spanish media outlets, however, have dampened the enthusiasm. Sources close to the tennis player’s entourage have in fact clarified that his withdrawal from Cincinnati was not caused by a relapse or a new wrist problem. The reason is said to be exclusively linked to the recovery program agreed upon with the medical staff.

According to this information, Alcaraz has recovered only 55% of his optimal athletic condition. The goal set by his team is to return to competition only once he has reached at least 85–90% of his peak form, avoiding any risk that could jeopardize the rest of his career.

It therefore remains to be seen whether there will be enough time for the Spanish star to be competitive at Flushing Meadows. The countdown to the U.S. Open has already begun, and every passing day reduces the window of opportunity to complete his recovery and regain peak form.