New York: World No. 1 and reigning US Open champion Carlos Alcaraz has officially withdrawn from the upcoming Davis Cup Finals in Bologna due to a hamstring injury, delivering a major blow to Spain’s title hopes. The 21-year-old confirmed the news on Tuesday after medical scans revealed oedema in his right hamstring, an issue that intensified during the ATP Finals, particularly in his final loss to Italian star Jannik Sinner last Sunday.
Alcaraz expressed his deep disappointment through an Instagram message, stating he was devastated to miss the opportunity to compete for his country.
“I’m so sorry to announce that I won’t be able to play for Spain in the Davis Cup in Bologna,” he wrote. “I have oedema in my right hamstring and the medical recommendation is not to compete. Playing for Spain means everything to me and I was really looking forward to fighting for the Davis Cup. I’m going home heartbroken.”
The International Tennis Federation (ITF) also described his absence as a major setback for the event, with Spain scheduled to face the Czech Republic on Thursday in the quarterfinals.
The tournament has already been hit by multiple withdrawals. World No. 2 Jannik Sinner had previously pulled out last month, and Italian player Lorenzo Musetti recently announced his withdrawal citing family and health reasons. Lorenzo Sonego, who has been training in Turin, is expected to replace Musetti in the Italian lineup.
With the finals set to conclude on Sunday, both Spain and Italy will now need to rethink their strategies, as injuries continue to disrupt preparations and expectations.
