Just minutes after Rafael Nadal announced his withdrawal from the Monte Carlo Masters, organisers received a double blow with Carlos Alcaraz also pulling out due to injury.
The world No.2 has been advised by doctors not to play in the first clay court Masters event of the season due to issues with his hand and spine. In a statement on social media, the 19-year-old confirmed that he is suffering from post-traumatic arthritis in his left hand. A type of arthritis that develops after there has been an acute injury to the joint but it is usually only a short-term issue. Alcaraz also confirmed that he is suffering from muscular discomfort in his spine.
“After two months abroad, I am happy to return home but sad because I finished my last match in Miami with physical discomfort. After visiting my doctor Juanjo Lopez in Murcia today and being evaluated, I will not be able to go to Monte Carlo to start the clay court tour,” Alcaraz said in a statement.
“I have post-traumatic arthritis in my left hand and muscular discomfort in the spine that needs rest to prepare for everything that is to come.”
It is yet another setback for Alcaraz who has been troubled by a series of injuries over the past 12 months. He missed last year’s ATP Finals due to an abdominal issue before injuring his leg which force him out of the Australian Open. He also missed a tournament in Mexico due to a minor hamstring problem.
Despite these physical problems, the US Open champion has still managed to record a win-loss record of 18-2 this season, winning titles in Buenos Aires and Indian Wells. The only players to have beaten him are Cameron Norrie at the Rio Open and Jannik Sinner in Miami.
No information has been provided about how long Alcaraz might be away from the Tour.
