Alcaraz return a giant question mark at USO

Carlos Alcaraz will roll the dice on his form after four and a half months injured when the Spanird returns to tennis at the US Open.

The Sunday start of the final Grand Slam of the season will be a huge test for the Spaniard who will put a right wrist injury from April under match pressure for the first time.

Alcaraz – his former buzzcut now replaced by a full head of hair – will open at Flushing Meadows against Roman Safiullin.

He gave his wrist a minor workout as he and Serena WIlliams posted a win and a loss at the hybrid Open mixed doubles this week.

“I’m feeling great, and I think the injury helped me (to know) that it’s (fears) are all in my head,” he said at pre-event media in New York.

“I’ve gotta trust my team, I gotta trust my people that tell me it’s gonna be fine.”

The Alcaraz strategy: “I just have to go 100 per cent and with the practice I have made so far, it’s been all good. 

“I’m trying to stay away from that fear.”

The defending champion who stands second in the field behind Roland Garros winner Alexander Zverev will be without pressure from rival Jannik Sinner, with the Italian missing the Open with a left knee injury.

Nevertheless, Alcaraz faces a return to reality on court.

“The first month (away) was difficult for me, because I couldn’t do anything with my right arm,” he said.

“But I enjoyed my time with family, with friends, staying at home.  But I didn’t know what I was going to start (come back).

“I didn’t know if I’m gonna be ready for Cincinnati (he was not) or the US Open.. or I’m gonna miss the whole American swing.

“I had thoughts were really difficult to deal with – but finally, here we are. 

“My goal was try to be healthy as soon as possible and try not to miss more competitions.”

Main photo:- Carlos Alcaraz and Serena Williams playing the US Open “hit and giggle” opener to the 2026 Grand Slam – by ISF Ltd