Arabic version: إصابة معصم ألكاراز تثير الشكوك حول مشاركته في أميركا المفتوحة
According to BBC News, Carlos Alcaraz has withdrawn from the upcoming Cincinnati Open as he continues to recover from a wrist injury, placing his US Open title defence in serious doubt. The Spaniard has missed the French Open and Wimbledon and has gone 114 days without a competitive match after suffering the injury in April.
Alcaraz is dealing with tenosynovitis, an inflammation of the fluid-filled sheath surrounding a tendon on the inside of the wrist. The condition can result from repetitive gripping and racket-swinging movements, causing swelling and tenderness. While minor cases may recover with rest in weeks, more severe cases can require extensive physiotherapy or surgery and may take up to a year to heal. Alcaraz has not undergone surgery, but was unable to use a racquet for part of his lay-off.
Wrist problems can be especially difficult for tennis players because the joint is involved in every contact with the ball. It helps create power and spin and is important for touch shots, including drop shots. Former world number 35 CiCi Bellis, who retired at 22 following recurring wrist injuries, said the injury can be difficult physically and mentally because players cannot simply remain on court hitting through the recovery.
Physiotherapist James Ross said wrist injuries are becoming more significant in tennis. He cited improved racquets and strings, which can mean players must absorb more force, as well as demanding schedules and inconsistent balls between tournaments. Ross also warned that a previous injury increases the risk of another one, making a cautious return important.
Alcaraz last played in the opening round of the Barcelona Open, beating a qualifier while visibly uncomfortable before withdrawing ahead of his next match. He has returned to training in Murcia, initially using a stringless racquet, but a competitive comeback remains at least weeks away. If he plays at the US Open, he could arrive with almost five months without match action.
