Carlos Alcaraz arrived in Bologna on Monday afternoon. World no. 1 and his team carried more than luggage from Turin, with the lingering pain shadowing his ATP Finals run and placing question marks over the Davis Cup Finals participation.
Carlos injured his right leg during the round-robin stage in Turin. Despite discomfort, he defeated four rivals to reach his first final at this event. He fought valiantly against Jannik Sinner in a 7-6, 7-5 loss after two hours in 15 minutes.
Alcaraz required a medical timeout and revealed a hamstring injury that intensified during his final two matches. On Monday afternoon, accompanied by Angel Ruiz Cotorro, Carlos underwent an MRI to determine the extend of the damage and prepare his next move.
ADVERTISEMENT
The scan confirmed a muscle edema and significant hamstring overload following a demanding week of tennis. Carlos struggled against Auger-Aliassime in the semi-final, and the discomfort became impossible to ignore in the title clash against his greatest rival.
ADVERTISEMENT
Alcaraz took a medical timeout in the closing stages of the opening set and continued. However, the issue certainly prevented him from performing even better, despite giving everything to win the title.
The Spaniard Tennis Federation reported that there is no tear, which is good news. However, Alcaraz will stay away from the practice court on Tuesday. He will try to train on Wednesday and see how his body will react.
The six-time Major winner is receiving treatments at the hotel, and the final decision about his participation in the tie against the Czech Republic will come after his feelings on the court.
One thing is certain. At this stage of the season and after 80 matches over the previous 11 months, the Spaniard will only play if he feels capable of contributing points. Thus, he will certainly miss the doubles action.
ADVERTISEMENT
David Ferrer will likely pairMarcel Granollers and Pedro Martinez for what could be the crucial rubber. Despite the setback, Carlos returned to the hotel with his trademark smile.
He hopes to lead his country and chase the Davis Cup title, but the final word belongs to his hamstring.
