Carlos Alcaraz, the reigning US Open champion, recently addressed the sensitive issue surrounding Jannik Sinner’s doping case, which has sparked widespread discussion in the tennis community. Speaking to the media ahead of the 2024 US Open, Alcaraz expressed his belief that there are factors behind Sinner’s situation that remain unknown to the public.
Alcaraz, who initially found it challenging to discuss the matter in English, later elaborated on his thoughts in Spanish. “I believe there’s something behind all of this that many people don’t know, including myself. It’s very hard to talk about it. He tested positive, but there must be a reason why they let him keep playing that we’re unaware of,” Alcaraz stated. He emphasized his commitment to clean sport and acknowledged that Sinner had been cleared to participate in the tournament. “In the end, we’ll have Jannik in the tournament,” he added.
The young Spanish star also addressed the ongoing debate about whether different rules apply to different players on the professional tour, a concern raised by other players like Denis Shapovalov and Nick Kyrgios. Alcaraz firmly stated, “I don’t believe in that,” dismissing the notion of unequal treatment.
In a separate incident during a practice session with Argentine Francisco Cerúndolo, Alcaraz raised concerns after twisting his right ankle, which led him to cut the session short as a precaution. Despite the incident, Alcaraz assured his fans and the media that he remains in good condition for the upcoming tournament. “The ankle is great; it never crossed my mind that I would miss the tournament. I stopped as a precaution. I wasn’t comfortable continuing the practice, and it was also better to stop in respect to Francisco,” he explained.
As the 2024 US Open approaches, all eyes will be on Alcaraz as he aims to defend his title while navigating the complexities of the sport both on and off the court.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2024
Now the world no.3, the Spaniard played his last match on the 16th of August when he was overcome by world no.45 Gael Monfils 4-6 7-6(5) 6-4 in the 2nd round in Cincinnati (draw).
At present, during this year the Spaniard owns a compiled 38-8 record. The Spaniard conquered 3 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells, French Open and Wimbledon. Alcaraz reached the final in Paris.
Carlos Alcaraz will play the world no.354 Gabi Adrian Boitan in the . In the past, they have never competed against each other until now on the main tour.
Alcaraz clinched 3 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells, French Open and Wimbledon. The Spaniard was the finalist in Paris (Olympics).
The Spaniard won 16 titles in his career: 4 on hard courts, 8 on clay courts, 1 on indoor courts and 3 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)
Carlos Alcaraz |
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