Carlos Alcaraz Withdraws From Roland Garros 2026 With Wrist Injury, Ending Three-Peat Bid
Two-time defending French Open champion Carlos Alcaraz has confirmed he will not compete at Roland Garros 2026 due to a right wrist injury, shattering hopes of an unprecedented three consecutive titles at the clay-court Grand Slam.
The Three-Peat Is Over Before It Began
Carlos Alcaraz will not defend his French Open title this year. The world No. 2 confirmed his withdrawal from Roland Garros 2026 on April 25, citing a right wrist injury that has prevented him from competing at full intensity in recent weeks. The Spaniard also withdrew from the Rome Masters, where he was the defending champion.
The announcement sent shockwaves through the tennis world. Alcaraz had won the French Open in both 2024 and 2025, becoming only the third man in the Open Era to win back-to-back titles at Roland Garros. A third consecutive title would have been historic — and his form on clay this season had suggested it was entirely possible.
The Injury Timeline
Alcaraz first reported discomfort in his right wrist during the clay-court swing in April. After consulting with medical staff, he made the difficult decision not to risk further damage ahead of what promises to be a busy summer schedule that includes Wimbledon and the US Open.
"It is one of the hardest decisions I have had to make," Alcaraz said in a statement released by his team. "Roland Garros means everything to me. But I have to be smart and protect my body for the long term."
Who Benefits?
Alcaraz's withdrawal opens the door for world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, who is currently in superb form at the Madrid Open, having reached the semi-finals with a convincing win over teenage Spaniard Rafael Jodar. Sinner, who has never won Roland Garros, will be the overwhelming favourite in Alcaraz's absence.
Other contenders include Alexander Zverev, the 2024 US Open champion, and Novak Djokovic, who at 38 continues to compete at the highest level and has won Roland Garros three times.
A Blow for the Sport
Alcaraz's absence is a significant blow for the tournament's commercial appeal. The Spaniard is one of tennis's biggest draws, combining spectacular shot-making with an infectious personality that has attracted a new generation of fans to the sport. Roland Garros begins on May 18.
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