A Cautious Road Back to New York
Carlos Alcaraz has not stepped onto a match court since injuring his wrist during his opening-round victory at the Barcelona Open in April. The seven-time Grand Slam champion subsequently withdrew from the French Open, Wimbledon, and most recently the Cincinnati Open, raising serious doubts about his participation at the US Open, the very tournament he is defending champion at. Injury experts have pointed to what is reportedly tenosynovitis, an inflammation of the tendon sheath, as the likely culprit behind such a prolonged absence. Stephen Smith, founder of sports science company Kitman Labs, told Tennis365 that the careful management is either a sign of serious ongoing symptoms or commendably patient rehabilitation planning, and added he would be "shocked" to see Alcaraz compete in the main draw.
Mixed Doubles as a Potential Lifeline
Holger Rune faces a similarly delicate situation, having ruptured his Achilles tendon last November. The two players were spotted hitting together earlier this week in a session that generated significant buzz online, fueling speculation about their readiness. Rather than risk the grueling demands of best-of-five-set Grand Slam tennis, both players are reportedly considering entering the mixed doubles event, which precedes the main draw opening on August 30. The United States Tennis Association appears open to offering wildcards. Alcaraz previously partnered Emma Raducanu in this event, while Rune played alongside Amanda Anisimova. Both matches concluded quickly, suggesting the format offers meaningful match time without excessive physical strain. Former British number one Greg Rusedski has nonetheless urged Alcaraz to resist any rushed return, calling a main-draw appearance unlikely given the Cincinnati withdrawal.
TennisDraw users will want to keep a close eye on official entry confirmations before locking in their US Open bracket picks.
