Carlos Alcaraz 'OK' after stopping practice due to ankle issue

Field Level Media|published: Sun 25th August, 14:57 2024

Carlos Alcaraz of Spain returns a serve from Gael Monfils of France during the men's singles round 2 during the Cincinnati Open at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in Mason Friday, August 16, 2024. Alcaraz lost 4-6, 7-6, (5), 6-4.

World No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz fully expects to be ready to play his first-round match on Tuesday at the U.S. Open after suffering an ankle injury on Saturday.

The 21-year-old Spaniard rolled his left ankle stretching for a ball on his backhand and ended his training session early after consulting with his team.

"I think it is OK. I just stopped my practice just for precaution," he told reporters on Saturday. "I didn't feel comfortable enough to keep practicing, just in case if everything is going to be worse."

Alcaraz, the 2022 U.S. Open champion, is preparing for a run at his third straight Grand Slam title, having won the French Open in June and Wimbledon in July.

"I don't want to stop any practice. I want to practice, I want to get better, I want to get ready for the tournament," he said. "I'm sure that (Sunday), or in two days, I'm going to be at 100 percent, for sure."

Alcaraz is slated to face Australian Li Tu, who is ranked No. 188 and has only played one Grand Slam match in his career.

--Field Level Media

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