Carlos Alcaraz, world number two, has announced his withdrawal from the Trofeo Conde de Godó due to a right wrist injury more serious than expected. The ailment emerged during his victory over Otto Virtanen and prevents him from playing the round of 16 against Tomas Machac. He prioritizes recovery to arrive in top shape for Roland Garros.
Carlos Alcaraz appeared at a press conference on Wednesday at the Real Club de Tenis Barcelona to confirm his withdrawal from the Trofeo Conde de Godó. "It's rare and difficult to sit here for the second time and explain that I won't be able to continue in the tournament," said the 22-year-old Spaniard. The right wrist injury occurred after a return in his winning debut against Otto Virtanen on Tuesday, where he required medical assistance.
Medical tests revealed it is a somewhat more serious ailment than initially thought, in the carpal tunnel area. "It's an injury more serious than we expected. I must listen to my body, what's best for me so it doesn't affect me in the future," stated Alcaraz, who canceled his prior training and decided to return home to recover.
This withdrawal costs him 280 ranking points, distancing him from world number one Jannik Sinner, and raises doubts about his participation in the Mutua Madrid Open, starting next Monday. Alcaraz has a history of physical setbacks before Roland Garros, such as ankle, arm, adductor, and hamstring issues in previous years. His priority is to be healthy for the Grand Slam, starting May 24.
The Barcelona tournament loses appeal without the world number two in the inaugural night session, replaced by the match between Arthur Fils and Brandon Nakashima. Meanwhile, young Rafa Jódar advances strongly in the Spanish draw.
