Carlos Alcaraz wrist injury and Laver Cup performance

Following a four-month hiatus caused by a right wrist injury, tennis player Carlos Alcaraz returned to competition at the US Open. During his rehabilitation, former champion Juan Martín del Potro advised Alcaraz to prioritize patience and proper regeneration rather than rushing back to protect ranking points.

After reaching the quarter-finals at the US Open, Alcaraz faced scrutiny regarding his intensive upcoming schedule, which includes the Laver Cup, the China Open, Shanghai Masters, and the Six Kings Slam. Former player Greg Rusedski urged Alcaraz to limit exhibition matches and adopt a more strategic tournament model to protect his long-term health.

Alcaraz has since arrived in London to prepare for the 2026 Laver Cup at the O2 Arena, where he will compete for Team Europe under captain Yannick Noah. During training sessions, Alcaraz and teammate Alexander Zverev shared lighthearted interactions. Alcaraz praised Zverev as ‘probably the world’s best player at the moment,’ while Zverev joked about his lack of celebration following his US Open victory, stating, ‘Completely nothing in my head. That's what helps, you know? When you’re stupid, it helps.’

During the 2026 Laver Cup, Alcaraz fulfilled a dual role for Team Europe, acting as both a competitor and a mentor. He provided tactical guidance and encouragement from the sidelines during matches involving Casper Ruud and Flavio Cobolli. On the court, Alcaraz secured two critical points for his team, including a dramatic 6-3, 4-6, 13-11 comeback victory over Taylor Fritz. Alcaraz noted that the team environment assists him in remaining calm during high-pressure situations.

Despite these preparations, analysts like Rusedski continue to express concern regarding his schedule, urging the player to prioritize health to avoid further setbacks following his recent struggle with tenosynovitis.