Jannik Sinner Weighs In On Alcaraz's French Open Exit: 'Tennis Needs Carlos'

Last Updated:April 25, 2026, 10:25 IST

Sinner, who eyes a potential Career Slam himself, isn’t celebrating but rather is backing Alcaraz to come back stronger after his wrist injury, stating '"tennis needs Carlos".

Rivalries make sport tick. But sometimes, respect speaks louder than competition.

And right now, that’s exactly what Jannik Sinner is doing for Carlos Alcaraz.

In a major blow to the clay-court season, Alcaraz has officially withdrawn from French Open next month due to a wrist injury.

The World No. 2 picked up the issue during the opening round of the Barcelona Open and hasn’t recovered in time.

“After the results of the tests carried out today, we have decided that the most prudent thing to do is to be cautious and not participate in Rome or Roland Garros as we wait to evaluate the progress so we can decide when to return to the court," Alcaraz shared.

Sinner: Rivalry Can Wait, Recovery Comes First

While Alcaraz’s absence opens the door for Sinner to chase a career-defining title, the Italian isn’t entertaining that narrative… at least not yet.

“I don’t know. I think this [his chances of winning] is not what we should talk about," Sinner said. “I think most important is to say that, first of all tennis needs Carlos. Tennis is in a much better spirit when he’s around."

Sinner added a personal touch too.

“And also for me personally it’s nice when he’s around, it makes me look also in the draw and single matches in a different way," the Italian stated.

“I do believe he’s going to come back stronger than before. But injury is always tough, especially wrist."

What This Means for Roland Garros

Sinner and Alcaraz produced one of the greatest finals in recent memory — the Spaniard’s epic five-set comeback win over the Italian at Roland Garros last year.

Now, with Alcaraz out, the men’s draw at Roland Garros suddenly feels wide open.

The tournament, starting May 24, could crown its first Grand Slam winner outside the Sinner-Alcaraz duopoly since 2023.

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