Carlos Alcaraz said he’s ‘not the favourite’ for the US Open as his rival says it feels like ‘Christmas came early.’
Carlos Alcaraz is ready to make his comeback at the US Open after many wondered if he would defend his title following a five-month break due to a wrist injury.
The young Spanish star missed both the French Open and Wimbledon to heal, but now feels it’s the right time to get back on the court. He made his return in the mixed doubles event, playing alongside Serena Williams. They gave a good fight but eventually lost to Belinda Bencic and Flavio Cobolli.
Alcaraz’s play has eased some worries about his fitness, but there’s still debate about whether he should be a top favorite for the tournament. Serena’s former coach, Rick Macci, shared some thoughts, saying Carlos should take it step by step.
On social media, Macci said: “Everyone needs to take a deep breath. Carlos has a lot of rust to shake off, and it might take the rest of the year to get back in top shape. After five months out, he shouldn’t be the favorite right away. You can’t just walk in and compete like you never left.”
With Jannik Sinner out of the US Open due to injury, and Alcaraz’s recent lack of matches, Alexander Zverev is now seen as the favorite. The German won his first Grand Slam earlier this year at the French Open, and Macci thinks this is his moment to shine.
Macci added, “I expect Zverev to win his second major, especially since the two best players, Carlos and Jannik, are out or rusty. Zverev has a great chance here—it’s his tournament to lose.”
Zverev will start his US Open journey against Lorenzo Sonego and may face Facundo Diaz Acosta or Quentin Halys in round two. Alcaraz will play Roman Safiullin in the first round, and if he wins, could meet Jaime Faria or Jenson Brooksby next.
It’s shaping up to be an exciting tournament!