World No.2 Carlos Alcaraz’s taped right forearm had been causing anxiety in the tennis community. Fans have been conjecturing about a possible withdrawal from the Monte Carlo Masters. The initial details coming from his training session that indicated Alcaraz showing discomfort further flamed the fire of speculation. But there might finally be some clarity.
With Alcaraz training at minimum intensity, the details about minor discomfort were confirmed. However, a journalist close to the Spaniard’s camp has come forward with news that could provide some relief to his fans.
‘Don’t believe everything that is said out there’ – Jose Moron on Carlos Alcaraz
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Journalist Jose Moron took to social media platform X to clear the air about Alcaraz’s taped arm. He wrote, “I tell you about the condition of Carlos Alcaraz and his forearm. I have read during the morning certain media talking about seriousness or even that he could withdraw from the tournament. What I know is that it’s all precautionary.” (translated using Google Translate)
Os cuento sobre el estado de Carlos Alcaraz y su antebrazo.
He leído durante la mañana a ciertos medios hablar de gravedad o incluso que podría retirarse del torneo.
Lo que sé es que es todo por precaución. Hay molestias, obvio, pero por eso no van a forzar en los… pic.twitter.com/Zb25SBq8fE
— José Morón (@jmgmoron) April 8, 2024
Although the Spanish journalist did confirm that there is minor pain, “There are discomforts, obviously, but that is why they are not going to force themselves in training. It debuts on Wednesday and will arrive at the premiere without problems. Don’t worry , and as I always tell you, don’t believe everything that is said out there.”
The anticipation was building as Alcaraz was seen minimally exerting himself during his practices. He could be seen avoiding forehands and using slices instead. Coach Juan Ferrero fed him lightly thrown balls and the forehands he hit off them mostly landed in the net. The Spaniard could hardly grip his racket and skipped gym work before his practice session raising alarm bells among fans.
Alcaraz has never won a match at the Monte Carlo Masters. In 2022 he got a ‘bye’ in his first round and in the second round, he lost to Sebastian Korda. In 2023, a repeat of which is feared by many, he withdrew due to post-traumatic arthritis and muscular discomfort in the spine. However, Alcaraz had shown positive signs leading up to the tournament with no signs of any injury.
Carlos Alcaraz is adept at adapting
Alcaraz appeared to be in peak physical condition leading up to this year’s Monte Carlo tournament, with no signs of physical struggle evident. His recent triumph in Indian Wells, where he ended an eight-month title drought by clinching the trophy for the second consecutive season, underscored his formidable form and fitness.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The Spaniard then suffered a setback at the Miami Open, losing to Grigor Dimitrov in the quarter-finals. Ahead of the Monet Carlo Masters Cup, he had said, ” I had a few days of rest after the Miami Open and then I started training on clay. I am a player who adapts his game very well to the surface.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
It could get tricky for Alcaraz if he fails to heal before his opening match against former world No.6 Auger-Aliassime, who has already defeated Luca Nardi.