Key Takeaways
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Defending 2025 champion Carlos Alcaraz will miss the 2026 Cincinnati Masters
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The Spaniard has been sidelined since April with a right wrist injury
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His absence raises concerns ahead of the US Open starting August 30
Tournament organizers confirm withdrawal
World number two Carlos Alcaraz has officially withdrawn from the ATP Cincinnati Masters due to the wrist injury that has kept him out since April. The tournament, beginning August 13, will not see the defending champion return to the courts this year. Tournament director Bob Moran stated: “We know Carlos is doing everything he can to get back to playing tournaments as soon as possible. We wish him the best with his recovery and look forward to welcoming him back to Cincinnati in the future.”
Timeline of injury setbacks
Alcaraz first sustained the injury during the Barcelona Open in April, forcing him to miss Roland Garros and Wimbledon. He also skipped the Masters events in Madrid and Rome, describing the decision to withdraw from Paris as “the most prudent thing to do.” Despite signs of progress, his recovery has not yet reached the level required for competition.
Implications for the US Open
The withdrawal sparks concern about his readiness for the US Open, which begins August 30 in New York. The Cincinnati Masters is traditionally the final major preparation event before the year’s last Grand Slam. Alcaraz’s absence leaves uncertainty about whether he will be fit to defend his title in New York.
Career highlights amid setbacks
Despite missing three consecutive Grand Slams, Alcaraz’s career remains historic. In January, he became the youngest man to complete the career Grand Slam with victory at the Australian Open. He also captured the ATP title in Doha earlier this year, reinforcing his status as one of the sport’s brightest talents.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2026
At the moment ranked no.2, Alcaraz played his last match on the 14th of April when he overcame world no.114 Otto Virtanen 6-4 6-2 in the 1st round in Barcelona (draw).
At the moment, during this season Alcaraz has managed to achieve a 22-3 win-loss record. Carlos has won 2 titles in 2026 at the Australian Open and Doha.
