Carlos Alcaraz Discusses Mental Struggles During Injury Recovery

New Delhi, India Aug 29, 2026 ALN: Seven-time major champion Carlos Alcaraz says dealing with "intrusive thoughts" over when he would be able to return from his wrist injury was the most challenging part of his long absence.

Spain's Alcaraz, 23, has not played a singles match since mid-April but says he feels "great" as he prepares to make his comeback at the US Open, which begins in New York on Sunday. His return is highly anticipated, particularly given his impressive performance last year when he won the tournament, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.

Alcaraz, who beat rival Jannik Sinner in last year's final at Flushing Meadows, starts his title defense against powerful Russian Roman Safiullin in a contest that is likely to examine his lack of competitive action. The US Open is one of the four Grand Slam tournaments, and winning it again would solidify Alcaraz's status as one of the leading players in men's .

"Once I started to practice a little bit but didn't know when I'm going to [return], those thoughts were really difficult to deal with," said Alcaraz. This statement highlights the mental strain athletes often face during injury recoveries, where uncertainty can lead to anxiety and self-doubt. The psychological aspect of s is increasingly recognized as a crucial factor in an athlete's performance, often being as significant as physical conditioning.

"I didn't know if I was going to be ready for Cincinnati, for the US Open, or [if] I'm going to miss the whole American swing. That was really difficult to deal with, but finally here we are. Those intrusive thoughts were the most difficult things to deal with in this process." This reflection underscores the importance of mental health awareness in s, especially for elite athletes who face immense pressure to perform at high levels.

Alcaraz made his return to a match court at the US Open earlier this week when he played alongside 23-time Grand Slam singles champion Serena Williams in the mixed doubles event. This participation not only served as an opportunity for him to regain match fitness but also allowed him to share the court with one of the 's legends, providing a unique experience that could help boost his confidence.

Despite his absence from singles competition, Alcaraz continues to wear a compression sleeve on his playing arm in a bid to protect his wrist. Wrist injuries are notoriously problematic for players, and taking a gamble when an issue arises in this delicate area can be very costly. The wrist is a vital joint in , affecting grip and swing mechanics, and any injury can significantly alter a player's performance.

Alcaraz has needed to show patience as he dealt with what is thought to be tenosynovitis, where the sheath that protects the tendon on the inside of the wrist becomes inflamed. This condition can be particularly frustrating for athletes, as it often requires a careful balance of rest and rehabilitation to avoid long-term damage.

Alcaraz generates huge amounts of power through his forehand, which puts a lot of load through the joint of his playing wrist. His aggressive style of play is one of the reasons he has quickly risen to the top of the , but it also means that he must be vigilant about his physical health. The pressure to perform at a high level can exacerbate the risk of injury, as athletes often push through pain to maintain their competitive edge.

But speaking on Friday, he insists he feels mentally ready to compete in five-set matches at the highest level. "It's really challenging. Probably, you know, in terms of preparation and everything, it is not the best time," said Alcaraz, who will be seeded second at the tournament despite his extended lay-off. His confidence in his mental readiness is crucial, as mental toughness can often be the deciding factor in high-stakes matches.

"But we, my team and me, believe that I'm ready." This statement reflects the importance of team support in an athlete's journey, emphasizing how a strong support system can help mitigate the psychological burden of injuries. Having a team that believes in him can provide Alcaraz with the reassurance he needs to perform at his best.

He added: "I've got to trust my team, I've got to trust my people that tell me it's going to be fine. I just have to go 100%, and right now I think with the practices I have done so far, it's been all good. I'm trying to stay away from any fear and I'm playing normal." This commitment to trust and positivity is essential for athletes returning from injury, as it fosters a mindset that can help them overcome challenges both on and off the court.

As the US Open approaches, the community watches closely to see how Alcaraz performs after such a significant layoff. His journey serves as a reminder of the physical and mental hurdles athletes face, and how resilience and determination can play pivotal roles in their careers. Whether or not he successfully defends his title, Alcaraz's experience will likely resonate with many, reinforcing the importance of mental health and the complexities of recovery in the world of professional s.