BREAKING: Carlos Alcaraz delays his return and will also miss Cincinnati

Fernando Murciego - 5 Aug 2026 | 00:37
ATP Carlos Alcaraz ATP Cincinnati 2026

Last-minute massive earthquake in the tennis circuit. Carlos Alcaraz, whom we expected to see back at the upcoming Masters 1000 in Cincinnati, announced just a few minutes ago that he is pulling out of the tournament.

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Carlos Alcaraz postpones his return and will also not be in Cincinnati. Source: Getty

Let’s say it quickly, even though it will hurt just the same: Carlos Alcaraz will not return at the Masters 1000 in Cincinnati. The American tournament confirmed the reigning champion's withdrawal a few minutes ago through its social media with a brief message: "We wish you all the best in your recovery process. We can't wait to welcome you next year!".

This news represents a new setback for the player from Murcia, who continues to recover from the wrist injury that has kept him off the courts since last April. The truth is that Alcaraz's presence in Cincinnati had generated enormous anticipation. After missing the clay-court tour, Roland Garros, Queen's, Wimbledon, and also the Masters 1000 in Canada, the Ohio tournament appeared to be the date marked for his return to competition. However, the Spaniard and his team ultimately decided not to take risks and to extend his recovery by a few more weeks.

The decision came just a few days after Alcaraz had intensified his training on hard courts, a sign that had fueled optimism about his return. The player from Murcia had been working alongside Samuel López and the rest of the team in recent weeks to regain his feelings, gradually increasing the workload, but now it seems clear that he is still not in a condition to compete at the highest level.

The withdrawal also has a significant sporting impact: Alcaraz was the titleholder in Cincinnati, having won it in 2025, so he will lose the opportunity to defend his crown and some very valuable points in the battle for the No. 2 ranking. Beyond the ranking, his absence will also prevent him from competing in the only major hard court preparation tournament before the US Open.

Will Carlos Alcaraz make it to the US Open 2026?

Now all eyes are on the US Open 2026. The Spaniard’s primary goal is to arrive completely recovered for the last Grand Slam of the season, although his lack of competition over the past four months inevitably raises doubts about the rhythm with which he will face such a demanding event. Caution, however, seems to continue to mark the roadmap of Alcaraz's team.

Carlos Alcaraz renuncia al torneo de Cincinnati y su presencia en el US Open peligra. Fuente: Getty

 

After an injury that already forced him to give up a large part of the season, the priority remains to avoid any relapse and ensure a complete recovery before returning to the circuit. With Cincinnati now ruled out, the Spaniard's calendar now hinges on whether he can return directly at the US Open or if his comeback will have to wait a little longer. We’re keeping our fingers crossed.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, ÚLTIMA HORA: Carlos Alcaraz retrasa su regreso y tampoco estará en Cincinnati