The defending champion has booked a practice session, challenging claims his presence at Flushing Meadows is a mere publicity stunt.
Defending US Open champion Carlos Alcaraz appears ready to put his recent wrist injury behind him, sending a clear message to critics and fans that he intends to compete in the tournament's singles draw. His latest practice schedule confirms a crucial session as the tennis world speculates on his fitness.
Alcaraz has faced significant challenges since suffering a serious wrist injury at the Barcelona Open last April. The setback forced him to withdraw from the French Open and Wimbledon, and even a planned comeback event at the Cincinnati Open earlier this month was abandoned.
These cancellations, coupled with a shaky mixed doubles appearance alongside Serena Williams and reported struggles in practice sets, fueled concerns over his readiness. However, his confirmed practice slot suggests a defiance of the growing doubts, according to reporting by Tennis365.
Alcaraz Confirms US Open Practice Amid Growing Skepticism
The biggest indicator of Alcaraz's intent arrived with the announcement of his practice schedule for Thursday at Flushing Meadows. He is booked for a session at 12 noon local time, precisely when the US Open draw will be made.
This firm commitment to court time directly contrasts with rumors that spread just a day earlier, on Wednesday, when he did not book any practice. Those whispers suggested he might delay his full return, but Thursday's booking firmly indicates otherwise.
Doubts Mount Over Grand Slam Return for Carlos Alcaraz
Despite Alcaraz's actions, several prominent figures in tennis have voiced strong reservations about his potential comeback at a Grand Slam event. Former US Open champion Andy Roddick and 1997 finalist Greg Rusedski are among those who believe it's a significant risk to play best-of-five-set matches in his first competitive singles outing.
Rusedski went further, suggesting Alcaraz's presence in New York might be nothing more than a 'publicity stunt.' On his podcast, Rusedski openly questioned the strategy: “Why would you start back with a wrist injury in three out of five sets?” He added, “I think it’s a huge risk. I would be very surprised if he plays in the singles.”
Former British No. 1 Laura Robson also joined the chorus, stating it "would be difficult" for Alcaraz to make a major tournament his return stage. Concerns were heightened by his mixed doubles performance, where his service speeds were noticeably down, and his forehand misfired wildly at times.
Balancing Risk and Readiness for the Defending Champion
While Alcaraz's practice booking sends a strong message, the ultimate decision on his fitness may still hinge on further evaluation. It is not entirely inconceivable that he might use a couple more practice sessions to make a final call ahead of his opening match on Sunday.
However, delaying such a significant decision could attract criticism. As the top seed, his position at the top of the draw potentially leaves the top half of the singles event unbalanced if he were to withdraw at the last minute. This adds another layer of pressure to the defending champion's situation.
Fans worldwide eagerly await the final confirmation, but Alcaraz's latest move firmly suggests he is preparing to defend his title, defying the growing skepticism surrounding his injury comeback.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Carlos Alcaraz suffer his wrist injury?
Carlos Alcaraz suffered a serious wrist injury in April at the Barcelona Open, which significantly impacted his 2024 season.
Which major tournaments did Carlos Alcaraz miss due to injury?
Due to his wrist injury, Carlos Alcaraz was forced to miss both the French Open and Wimbledon, as well as a planned return at the Cincinnati Open.
Who are some of the tennis experts doubting Alcaraz's US Open comeback?
Tennis experts expressing doubts about Carlos Alcaraz's US Open comeback include former champions Andy Roddick and Greg Rusedski, alongside former British No. 1 Laura Robson.
What did Greg Rusedski say about Carlos Alcaraz's US Open presence?
Greg Rusedski suggested Alcaraz's presence at the US Open might be a 'publicity stunt' and questioned why he would risk playing best-of-five-set matches with a wrist injury, calling it a "huge risk."