Carlos Alcaraz joins Novak Djokovic in the injury red zone ahead of the US Open

2022 champion Carlos Alcaraz is scheduled to play qualifier Li Tu on Tuesday (August 27) in the US Open first round.

Carlos Alcaraz joins Novak Djokovic in the injury red zone ahead of the US Open

Carlos Alcaraz (Via Imago/X)

The US Open kicks off on Monday (August 26), and the storylines are already flowing before the first ball is struck. The latest news involves third seed Carlos Alcaraz.

The Spaniard was practicing with Francisco Cerundolo when he tweaked his ankle. Although it didn’t initially appear serious, Alcaraz decided to stop his practice after communicating with his team.

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This is worrying for US Open fans, who have already seen a similar situation with defending champion Novak Djokovic. The Serbian was also scheduled to practice with Holger Rune on Friday but cut his session short after experiencing some discomfort in his knee.

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Alcaraz is scheduled to play against qualifier Li Tu on Tuesday, so there is optimism that he will have enough time to be fit for his opening round.

Carlos Alcaraz gives update on his ankle

Third seed Carlos Alcaraz has provided an update on the injury scare during his practice session with Francisco Cerundolo. The Spaniard appeared to have tweaked his knee before sitting down and casually walking away from practice.

Carlos Alcaraz Cincinnati Open
Carlos Alcaraz (Via Imago)

Alcaraz spoke during the pre-tournament press conference and was asked for an update. However, the former World No.1 has put those injury concerns to rest for now.

I wasn't worried at all for my US Open participation. Obviously I was angry because I don't want to stop the practice, just to respect Cerundolo, as well. I don't want to stop any practice. I want to practice, I want to get better, I want to get ready for the tournament.
Carlos Alcaraz said in his US Open pre-tournament press conference

Alcaraz is entering the US Open seeking his fifth Grand Slam title. If he wins in New York, he will be the first player ever to win five Grand Slam titles by the age of 21.

Honestly, with the ankle, I wasn't worried about that. So I'm sure that, you know, tomorrow or in two days I'm going to be my 100% for sure. It's about time.
Carlos Alcaraz added

Additionally, he is aiming to become the first player since Rafael Nadal to win Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and the US Open in the same season. Nadal achieved that feat in 2010.

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