Carlos Alcaraz’s participation in the 2025 Madrid Open is in serious doubt following an injury sustained during his Barcelona Open final loss to Holger Rune.
The world No. 3 suffered a right adductor issue in Sunday’s 7-6, 6-2 defeat, visibly struggling during the latter stages of the match and dropping the final five games. After undergoing medical tests earlier this week, Alcaraz skipped his scheduled practice on Wednesday and is now set to hold a press conference on Thursday to announce his decision.
“I had some tests on Monday and now I’m waiting,” Alcaraz said. “At the start of the week, I thought I’d improve, but I’m still not 100%. I have to listen to my body and make the right decision with my team.”
The 21-year-old, a two-time Madrid champion, is eager to compete in front of his home fans but admitted his recovery has been slower than hoped. With the French Open title defense fast approaching, Alcaraz is weighing the risks of aggravating the injury.
Last year, he played Madrid despite nursing a hand injury, only to fall in the quarterfinals to Andrey Rublev and subsequently withdraw from Rome. Although he went on to win Roland Garros, the experience has made him more cautious.
Alcaraz had a strong start to the clay season, winning the Monte Carlo Masters earlier this month—his sixth ATP Masters 1000 title. In Barcelona, he aimed for a third crown but ran into trouble in the final, especially during long rallies. After a medical timeout in the second set, he continued to compete but couldn’t keep pace with Rune.
While fans hope for a last-minute recovery, Alcaraz emphasized he won’t compromise his long-term health: “Madrid is one of my favorite tournaments, and I’d love to play in front of the home crowd, but I have to be smart.”
Stay tuned for his official update during Thursday’s press conference.
