World No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz was notably absent from the Madrid Open after withdrawing due to an adductor injury sustained at the Barcelona Open. However, recent medical evaluations ahead of the Rome Open have confirmed that the injury is fully healed, paving the way for the Spanish star’s return to competition.
According to reports from Spanish outlet MARCA and ESPN, Alcaraz is scheduled to participate in the Italian Masters. With no signs of lingering pain, the 21-year-old plans to conduct a high-intensity training session on Monday, April 5—his birthday—before traveling to Rome on Tuesday.
During his recovery in Murcia, Alcaraz completed training sessions without discomfort, signaling his readiness to compete. The Rome Open will also mark the return of World No. 1 Jannik Sinner, who is rejoining the tour after serving a three-month suspension for a doping violation. Fully recovered and back in action, Alcaraz is poised to re-establish himself as a top contender on the clay ahead of the French Open.
Alcaraz eyes No. 2 spot in ATP Rankings
The Italian Masters holds added significance for Alcaraz as he looks to reclaim the World No. 2 ranking. If current No. 2 Alexander Zverev fails to defend his 2024 title and Alcaraz advances to at least the semifinals, the Spaniard will overtake Zverev in the rankings ahead of Roland Garros.
Securing the No. 2 spot before the French Open would ensure that Alcaraz avoids facing World No. 1 Jannik Sinner until the final, a strategic advantage as he prepares for the Grand Slam.
Updated ATP Rankings
The ATP rankings have seen significant movement during the Madrid Open. Notably, Jack Draper entered the top five for the first time, with further adjustments pending the outcome of his final against Casper Ruud. Here’s the current top 10:
- 1- Jannik Sinner – 9,730
- 2- Alexander Zverev – 8,085
- 3- Carlos Alcaraz – 7,850
- 4- Taylor Fritz – 4,815
- 5- Jack Draper – 4,440/4,790 (+1)
- 6- Novak Djokovic – 4,130 (-1)
- 7- Alex de Minaur – 3,635
- 8- Lorenzo Musetti – 3,550 (+3)
- 9- Holger Rune – 3,440
- 10- Casper Ruud – 3,365/3,715 (+5)