Who steps up in Carlos Alcaraz’s absence at the French Open
Everyone is reeling from the news that Carlos Alcaraz is out for the remainder of the clay season. He will not compete for his third consecutive French O pen title next month. While we should not be surprised, Alcaraz was wearing a cast earlier this week, and his words seemingly hinted that this could happen.
Rafael Nadal and Jannik Sinner both expressed their regrets that he won’t be at Roland Garros. Hopefully he heals quickly, but with Sinner and Alcaraz winning the last nine Grand Slams, it opens the door for someone else to step up and win the French Open. MORE: Taylor Fritz, Morgan Riddle breakup rumors once again flood social media The biggest contenders The most obvious is World No.
1 Sinner. Sinner came so close to winning the French Open last year. He won the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters.
If he wins Roland Garros, he completes his own Career Grand Slam. Alexander Zverev has long been a contender for a Grand Slam. It would be fitting if he won Roland Garros after the devastating ankle injury took him out of contention against Rafael Nadal in 2022.
Jan 30, 2026; Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Carlos Alcaraz of Spain celebrates his victory over Alexander Zverev of Germany in the semifinals of the menís singles at the Australian Open at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park. Mandatory Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images Beyond that, we could see the emergence of a new star. Who it is depends on how he manages his body and the hectic schedule between Madrid, Italy, and Roland Garros.