Alcaraz Prioritises Recovery Over Roland Garros Defence

By Eppe Franklyne

Carlos Alcaraz has made it clear he will not risk his long-term fitness for a quick return, even if it means missing his Roland Garros title defence in May. The French Open champion is dealing with a wrist injury he now describes as serious, raising doubts about his participation in the upcoming Grand Slam.

The 22-year-old withdrew from the Barcelona clay tournament after feeling his wrist “give out on a return.” He later confirmed that the issue was “a more serious injury than any of us expected.” Soon after, he also pulled out of the Madrid Open, deepening concerns about his readiness for Paris.

Speaking on Monday, Alcaraz stressed the need to focus on recovery rather than rushing back. “I’d rather come back a little later but in great shape than come back early, rushing around, and unwell.” He added, “God willing, I have a very long career ahead of me, many years, and pushing myself too hard at this Roland Garros could seriously harm me in future tournaments.”

The Spanish star accepted the situation with calm. “Things happen in the professional world. You have to accept them,” he said. “I need to recover really well if I don’t want it to affect me later on.”

Alcaraz recently lost the world number one ranking after defeat to Jannik Sinner at the Monte Carlo Masters. Before that, he had been in strong form, winning 17 straight matches on clay and claiming titles in Rome and Roland Garros.

Do you think Carlos Alcaraz is right to prioritise recovery over defending his Roland Garros title defence?