Carlos Alcaraz gears up for US Open after injury layoff
What's the story
Carlos Alcaraz, the Spanish tennis sensation and reigning US Open champion, has opened up about his long-awaited return to competitive tennis. The 23-year-old had been sidelined for over four months due to a right wrist injury. He missed both Roland Garros and Wimbledon this summer after injuring his wrist during the Barcelona Open in April. The Spaniard is set to appear at the US Open.
Comeback feelings
'I miss everything about tennis'
Alcaraz, a seven-time Grand Slam champion, returned to Flushing Meadows for the first time this year on Sunday.
He was greeted by a huge crowd at Louis Armstrong Stadium.
After his practice session, Alcaraz spoke about his feelings on returning to competitive tennis after such a long break.
"After a couple of months recovering from my injury, I miss everything," he said.
Special tournament
Grateful to be back at US Open
Alcaraz also expressed his gratitude for being able to return at such a special tournament as the US Open.
"I think I couldn't have started at a better place than here, so I feel very grateful," he said.
The world No. 3 admitted that it wasn't an easy decision to play in this Grand Slam after more than four months away from the sport.
Doubles duo
Alcaraz to play mixed doubles with Serena Williams
Alcaraz, who won his last Grand Slam title at the 2026 Australian Open, will team up with 23-time champion Serena Williams in the US Open mixed doubles event. The duo received a wildcard at the year's last Major.
The tournament will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday.
The men's singles competition at Flushing Meadows is scheduled from Sunday to September 13.
Record
Singles record at US Open
The 2022 US Open marked Alcaraz's maiden Grand Slam title. In his maiden Grand Slam final, Alcaraz beat Casper Ruud in four sets.
At 19, he became the youngest world number one in ATP history, breaking the long-standing record of Lleyton Hewitt.
Alcaraz also became the youngest Grand Slam champion (men's singles) since Rafael Nadal at the 2005 French Open.
Last year, Alcaraz beat Jannik Sinner to win the US Open. He is 24-3 at this Slam.