Carlos Alcaraz will face Taylor Fritz in the Six Kings Slam semi-final. World no. 1 arrived in Riyadh with optimism and a touch of caution. The 22-year-old offered a detailed update on his ankle ahead of his first match at the exhibition.
The El Palmar native confirmed that he feels fit to compete and chase the title and $6 million. However, he still carries a hint of doubt following a grade two sprain atthe ATP 500 event in Tokyo.
The injury continues to heal steadily, though not at full speed due to the limited recovery time. Carlos skipped the Shanghai Masters but entered the Six Kings Slam, kicking off the final phase of his career-best season.
Alcaraz explained that while he no longer feels pain, confidence in full-speed movement is the final piece yet to return. To protect the joint and ensure stability during intense rallies, an he expects them in Riyadh, he will continue playing with a supportive bandage - a precaution he considers essential for now.
Despite the minor setback, the 22-year-old is eager to embrace the challenge in Riyadh following his eighth ATP title of the season in Tokyo. Known for his explosive movement and fearless shot-making, Carlos enters the tournament determined to chase another title.
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As always, he trusts his team's careful management of his recovery. The Six Kings Slam brings together some of the sport's biggest names. The Spaniard's participation is already a positive sign after concerns that he might skip the event.
The young gun started practicing at home last week, speeding up his training process and landing in Riyadh with high hopes. Last year, he fought for the title at the inaugural event.
He claimed the opener against Jannik Sinner before suffering a 6-7, 6-3, 6-3 defeat. Though not completely free of worry, his readiness to compete shows the same spirit that has defined his young career.
The outcome? We will find out of Thursday against Taylor Fritz.
"The ankle has been recovering well, within circumstances. It was a grade two sprain, and without much rest, it always takes a bit longer to heal. Maybe Im still playing, not with discomfort, but with a bit of doubt.
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Those doubts always take time to go away, but the truth is that we are doing a good job. My ankle is doing well. I will continue to play with a bandage. I just do not feel completely confident playing tough matches without it," Carlos Alcaraz said.
