Carlos Alcaraz pulls out of French Open 2026 due to wrist injury setback

In a major setback to the clay-court season, reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz has withdrawn from the French Open due to a right wrist injury , ending his hopes of securing a third consecutive title in Paris and defending his crown on one of tennis’s biggest stages.

The Spaniard confirmed the decision after undergoing medical tests, choosing caution over risk at a crucial point in the season. The injury was sustained earlier this month during the Barcelona Open , where he picked up the issue during his opening match before withdrawing soon after. He had already pulled out of the Madrid Open and has now also confirmed his absence from the Italian Open , a key build-up event he had won last year.

Despite the setback, Alcaraz made a brief public appearance at the Laureus World Sports Awards in Madrid, where he was honoured as World Sportsman of the Year . Wearing a wrist support, his presence underlined both the seriousness of the injury and the magnitude of his recent achievements. “ It’s a complicated moment for me, but I’m sure we’ll come out stronger ,” he said, striking a hopeful note.

The 2026 season had begun on a high, with Alcaraz defeating Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open final, becoming the youngest player to complete a career Grand Slam. However, his momentum slowed on clay, including a defeat to Jannik Sinner in Monte Carlo, which cost him the top ranking.

Alcaraz’s absence now leaves a significant void in the tournament , opening the field for rivals while depriving fans of one of the sport’s most exciting performers. With Roland Garros set to begin on May 18, all eyes will be on how the competition reshapes itself—and on how quickly Alcaraz can recover to reclaim his place at the top.