Carlos Alcaraz Returns to Action with Wrist Guard Amid US Open Concerns

Carlos Alcaraz's highly anticipated return to tennis has been met with concerns about his wrist injury, but former pro Andy Roddick has come to his defense, suggesting the wrist guard may be a precautionary measure to protect his injured wrist from overexertion.

What happened?

Carlos Alcaraz was recently spotted at the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final between Spain and Argentina, where he presented the Louis Vuitton trophy trunk pre-game and supported his home country from the stands. However, it was the sight of his wrist brace that sparked speculation about his recovery.

Why it matters for Carlos Alcaraz

Alcaraz's right wrist injury, an inflamed tendon sheath, sidelined him in April and forced him to miss the bulk of the European clay and grass seasons, including Roland Garros and Wimbledon. Being cautious rather than rushing a return, he recently skipped the Montréal Masters as well to focus on his training block.

What comes next?

Roddick, a 2003 US Open winner, recently discussed Alcaraz's injury situation on his podcast, "Served with Andy Roddick." According to Roddick, fans shouldn't hit the panic button just yet, because the wrap might be a brilliant piece of crowd protection. "If I'm him, do I wear a rollerblading wrist guard? If you're in a bunch of people and you've had a wrist injury, I would 100% have some marker that says, 'Don't come up and shake my hand,'" Roddick said.

Alcaraz is targeting a comeback at the Cincinnati Masters ahead of the US Open, and Roddick's comments offer a glimmer of hope for the young tennis star. With his wrist now reportedly fully healed, Alcaraz is looking to make a strong return to the court.

Roddick's comments also highlight the importance of caution when returning from injury. "Even if it was mostly fine, even if I'm close to being back, I'm hitting balls, whatever, I'm not going to the World Cup to shake 250 hands and have some guy who's been on one come at me a little too hard," Roddick added.

Alcaraz's return to action is eagerly anticipated, and Roddick's comments offer a reassuring perspective on the young tennis star's wrist injury. With his sights set on the US Open, Alcaraz is looking to make a strong comeback and prove his doubters wrong.

The Cincinnati Masters is set to take place from August 15-21, with Alcaraz looking to make a statement on his return to the court. With Roddick's words of wisdom ringing in his ears, Alcaraz is ready to take on the best of the best and prove his worth as a top-ranked tennis player.

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