Spain’s top-ranked tennis player Carlos Alcaraz has withdrawn from the Davis Cup Finals in Italy due to a hamstring injury, the player announced on Tuesday. The decision comes after medical advice that competing could worsen the condition.
“I’m so sorry to announce that I won’t be able to play for Spain in the Davis Cup in Bologna,” Alcaraz wrote on X. “I have an edema in my right hamstring and the medical recommendation is not to compete.” He described returning home as “heartbroken” and added that representing Spain has always been a source of pride.
Alcaraz, 22, was scheduled to lead Spain against the fourth-seeded Czech Republic in the quarterfinals on Thursday. The Spaniard had aimed to guide his country to its first Davis Cup title. Spain fell short last year, exiting in the opening round of the Final 8 at home in Malaga, a defeat that overshadowed the final match of Rafael Nadal’s celebrated career.
“I’ve always said that playing for Spain is the greatest thing there is, and I was really looking forward to helping us fight for the Davis Cup,” Alcaraz said. He had previously expressed his ambition to win the tournament, describing it as “a really important, important tournament” for him.
Spain faces a challenging quarterfinal against the Czech Republic, which includes top-20 players Jiri Lehecka and Jakub Mensik. The Spanish team reached the Finals by defeating the United States in the qualifying round in September.
Alcaraz’s absence leaves Spain without its leading player, a significant blow given his recent form on the ATP Tour. The team will now need to adjust its lineup and strategies as it attempts to advance in the tournament without its star player.
The Davis Cup Finals continue in Bologna, with Spain’s quarterfinal match against the Czech Republic scheduled for Thursday. With Alcaraz sidelined, other Spanish players will be tasked with stepping up to keep the nation’s hopes alive in the prestigious team competition.
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