Carlos Alcaraz's U.S. Open Journey: Battling Ankle Woes and Reflecting on Highs and Lows

Carlos Alcaraz, the 21-year-old Spanish tennis star, cut short a U.S. Open training session due to a twisted right ankle. Despite this, he remains confident about his readiness for the Grand Slam. Alcaraz also reflected on his recent matches, including a loss to Novak Djokovic at the Paris Olympics.

Carlos Alcaraz halted a training session for the U.S. Open on Saturday after twisting his right ankle but expressed confidence that the injury wouldn't impact his participation in the year's final Grand Slam.

"I think it is OK. I just stopped my practice just for precaution," said the 21-year-old Spaniard, who won the U.S. Open in 2022, marking the first of his four major titles. Alcaraz added, "I didn't feel comfortable enough to keep practicing; just in case if everything is going to be worse." He stressed he wasn't worried about missing the tournament but acknowledged losing valuable preparation time.

Less than ideal preparation has been a theme for Alcaraz, who played only one hard-court match before the U.S. Open — a loss to Gael Monfils in Cincinnati where he smashed his racket in frustration. Reflecting on a recent tough loss to Novak Djokovic at the Paris Olympics, Alcaraz noted his resolve to learn and improve from these experiences.

(With inputs from agencies.)