‘Hang in there, Carlos’: Nadal backs Alcaraz after wrist injury forces withdrawal from French Open, Rome

Fourteen-time French Open champion Rafael Nadal has thrown his support behind Carlos Alcaraz after the World No. 2 was ruled out of both Rome and Roland Garros due to a wrist injury.

Alcaraz confirmed on Friday that he will miss the Italian Open and the clay-court major in Paris after sustaining the injury during his opening-round match at the ATP 500 event in Barcelona.

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Taking to social media, Nadal offered words of encouragement to his compatriot.
“Hang in there, Carlos! I hope you have the speediest recovery possible. These difficult moments truly highlight the value of everything you are doing. Stay strong, sending you a big hug!”

The setback means Alcaraz will miss Roland Garros for the first time since 2021. He had already hinted at uncertainty around his participation during the Laureus World Sports Awards earlier this week.

That doubt was confirmed after medical evaluations.
“After the results of the tests carried out today, we have decided that the most prudent thing to do is to be cautious and not participate in Rome or Roland Garros as we wait to evaluate the progress so we can decide when to return to the court. This is a difficult time for me, but I am sure we will come out of it stronger,” Alcaraz said.

The Spaniard was set to defend titles in both Rome and Paris, where he produced a dramatic comeback win over Jannik Sinner in last year’s final, saving three championship points. Earlier this season, Alcaraz also completed his Career Grand Slam at the Australian Open.

Sinner, who recently overtook Alcaraz as World No. 1 after beating him in Monte-Carlo, also weighed in on the development.

“I think what’s most important is to say that tennis needs Carlos,” Sinner said after his opening win in Madrid. “Tennis is a much better sport when he’s around.”

With 3,000 ranking points to defend across Rome and Roland Garros, Alcaraz’s absence could have a significant impact on the ATP standings as the clay season unfolds.