Carlos Alcaraz has confirmed he will miss the French Open due to a wrist injury.
The world number two sustained the problem during his opening match at the Barcelona Open and has since undergone tests to assess the damage.
“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,” Alcaraz said.
“This is a difficult time for me, but I am sure we will come out of this stronger.”
The 22-year-old has also withdrawn from the Italian Open, ruling him out of the entire clay-court swing leading into Roland Garros.
Alcaraz had been expected to challenge strongly in Paris, having dominated on clay last season with titles in Monte Carlo, Rome and the French Open.
Sinner set to benefit from Alcaraz absence
Jannik Sinner, who recently overtook Alcaraz as world number one, could strengthen his position further during the Spaniard’s absence.
The Italian has already beaten Alcaraz in Monte Carlo this month and now has a clear opportunity to extend his lead in the rankings.
It also presents Sinner with a chance to complete a career Grand Slam, with the French Open the only major title missing from his collection.
Alcaraz season disrupted after strong start
Alcaraz began the year in impressive fashion, winning the Australian Open and becoming the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam.
However, this latest setback interrupts his momentum at a crucial stage of the calendar.
Since breaking through on the Grand Slam stage in 2021, injuries have rarely kept him out, with this marking just the second major tournament he has been forced to miss.
