Carlos Alcaraz, currently ranked world number 2, has just delivered disappointing news to his fans and the tennis world. He has withdrawn from the Swiss Indoors, which was scheduled for the upcoming week. The reason for his withdrawal is a double injury blow, casting doubt on the remainder of his 2023 season and, perhaps, his participation in the coveted ATP Finals.
Carlos Alcaraz himself took to social media to share the unfortunate news. In an Instagram post, he stated, “Unfortunately I will not be able to play in Basel this year! I have a problem with the plantar fascia in my left foot and muscle fatigue in my lower back which need treatment so I can play the rest of the season. I hope to see you all soon!”
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The tournament organizers also confirmed Alcaraz’s withdrawal, citing a bulletin from his doctor that detailed an inflammation of the sole of his left foot and issues with his gluteal muscles. Swiss star Stan Wawrinka, who had initially received a wildcard entry, has now directly entered into the main draw.
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Alcaraz’s dual injuries are significant hurdles that need prompt medical attention to ensure a full recovery. If not healed in time it can hamper his participation in the year-end ATP Finals tournament. Whether he will recover in time for the prestigious tournament remains uncertain, leaving tennis fans anxious and at the same time disappointed as many consider him the only worthy challenger to Novak Djokovic.
Is the year-end world no. 1 ranking a foregone conclusion now?
The ATP tournament in Basel held significant importance for Alcaraz as it offered the opportunity to earn valuable ATP points. Last year, in 2022, he made his debut at the ATP 500 tournament in Basel, securing three impressive wins before succumbing to eventual champion Felix Auger-Aliassime in the semifinals.
Alcaraz’s decision to step back is a significant blow to his ATP Race chances, as he has already faced five losses since his Wimbledon triumph. He missed the opportunity to amass more points during the Chinese swing and enhance his year-end ranking. Without a strong showing in Basel, his task to outperform Novak Djokovic in the Paris Masters and ATP Finals in Turin seems more challenging.
Novak Djokovic regains the World No. 1 ranking!
Will extend his record to 390 weeks atop the ATP tour 📈 pic.twitter.com/bD9AJ6X0pr
— Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) August 29, 2023
Currently ranked as the world number 2, Carlos Alcaraz finds himself trailing behind Novak Djokovic by 2,245 points in the live ATP race. To have any hope of surpassing the Serbian star, he not only needs to participate in these tournaments but also secure victory in both of them. However, with the double injury blow he’s facing, this daunting task appears increasingly challenging for the young Spanish talent!