Carlos Alcaraz’s US Open 2026 Title Defense in Doubt After Injury, Says Andy Roddick

**Carlos Alcaraz’s defending US Open 2026 title is under threat after Andy Roddick dismissed his chances of breaking Jannik Sinner’s form.** The Spaniard, sidelined since a wrist injury at the Barcelona Open in April, faces an uphill battle to regain match fitness before New York.

Roddick, on his *Served with Andy Roddick* podcast, called Sinner the "overwhelming favorite" even if Alcaraz returns. His reasoning? **No player reaches Major-winning form without consistent match play.** Alcaraz has played zero tournaments since Barcelona-zero.

The Spaniard was unstoppable early this season: **Australian Open champion, Qatar Open winner, and Cincinnati/US Open 2025 titleholder.** But his streak ended at Indian Wells (semifinals), followed by a third-round exit at Miami and a Monte-Carlo Masters runner-up finish. Then, in Barcelona, tragedy struck mid-tournament.

Sinner, meanwhile, has **won five Masters 1000s this year** and defended his Wimbledon title.** His only blip? A shocking second-round French Open exit-despite serving for the match at 5-1 in the third set. Roddick’s point: **Sinner’s hardcourt rhythm is locked in; Alcaraz’s isn’t.**

The Spaniard skipped the Canadian Open (first summer hardcourt Masters 1000) but posted training videos recently. His return isn’t guaranteed-**defending two titles after six weeks off is a tall order.** Yet, with his generational talent, a deep run isn’t impossible.

Alcaraz beat Sinner in both the 2025 Cincinnati and US Open finals. But **this year’s Sinner is a different player-sharper, more consistent.** Roddick’s take? **Match reps matter more than titles.** Without them, Alcaraz’s best version might stay on the sidelines.