Carlos Alcaraz pulls out of French Open title defence due to wrist injury

Carlos Alcaraz has pulled out of his French Open title defence after medical tests on a right wrist injury convinced him to end his clay-court season.

Alcaraz announced on April 24 that he will miss Roland Garros and also skip the Rome Masters. The injury began in Barcelona, where he withdrew after the problem flared during the clay swing.

ATP reporting said the scans and medical advice showed the issue was more serious than first expected. AP and Reuters coverage also confirmed the withdrawal, ending any chance of a French Open title defence.

The decision is a major blow to the spring clay season, where Alcaraz had been one of the main attractions and title contenders. It also leaves a large gap in the draw at Roland Garros.

The immediate question now is how long the wrist recovery will take and whether he will be ready for the grass-court season.