Carlos Alcaraz injury ‘decision made’ ahead of Madrid Masters opener – report

Kevin Palmer
Pictured: Carlos Alcaraz celebrates
Carlos Alcaraz fist pump

Carlos Alcaraz is set to decide whether he will compete at the Madrid Open imminently and reports in Spain suggest his fans may be disappointed by the verdict.

Alcaraz confirmed he was suffering from an adductor muscle problem he sustained during his straight sets defeat in last Sunday’s Barcelona Open final against Holger Rune, with medical experts quick to suggest the world No 3 would be taking a risk to play in Madrid after these comments.

“At the start of the second set, everything was very intense, and I felt the adductor muscle in my right leg was very tight,” said Alcaraz after the defeat against Rune.

“We’ll have two days off, which I would have had anyway if I hadn’t hurt myself. I’ll talk with my team, we’ll do some tests, but I’m confident it won’t affect me in Madrid.

“I’ve struggled to keep going and maintain a good level. From what I’m feeling right now, I’ll be off for two days. I’m confident it won’t hurt me ahead of Madrid.

“It’s been two weeks of nonstop play, and it’s been a real challenge. Today wasn’t possible, but I gave everything I had. I don’t know if I could have pushed myself any harder.”

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Now COPE in Spain is reporting that Alcaraz may be set to withdraw from the Madrid Open, as he looks to ensure he does not further damage the injury ahead of his defence of the French Open title at Roland Garros next month.

Alcaraz played in the Madrid Masters last year despite struggling with an arm injury, as he highlighted his eagerness to play in front of the Spanish fans despite his physical concerns.

Yet after he had a scan on Monday, Alacarz and his team will now be in possession of the results that will dictate whether he plays in Madrid.

Adductor injury recovery time varies depending on the severity of the strain, ranging from a few weeks for mild cases to several months for severe injuries.

Treatment typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation, followed by physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility.

Mild strains (Grade 1) typically heal within 2-3 weeks, while moderate strains (Grade 2) might take 3-6 weeks, and severe strains (Grade 3) can take four or more months.

If Alcaraz is told that playing in Madrid will put his hopes of defending the title at Roland Garros at risk, he will have to pull out of his home Masters tournament.

Yet this proud champion will be eager to give himself every chance to compete and with his first match set to be played on Saturday, Alcaraz has a few days before he needs to announce his plans.

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