Injury uncertainty led to 'intrusive thoughts' for Alcaraz

Seven-time major champion Carlos Alcaraz says dealing with "intrusive thoughts" over when he would be able to return from his wrist injury was the most challenging part of his long absence.

Spain's Alcaraz, 23, has not played a singles match since mid-April but says he feels "great" as he prepares to make his comeback at the US Open, which begins in New York on Sunday.

Alcaraz, who beat rival Jannik Sinner in last year's final at Flushing Meadows, starts his title defence against powerful Russian Roman Safiullin in a contest which is likely to examine his lack of competitive action.

"Once I started to practice a little bit but didn't know when I'm going to [return], those thoughts were really difficult to deal with," said Alcaraz.

"I didn't know if I was going to be ready for Cincinnati, for the US Open, or [if] I'm going to miss the whole American swing.

"That was really difficult to deal with, but finally here we are. Those intrusive thoughts were the most difficult things to deal with in this process."

Alcaraz made his return to a match court at the US Open earlier this week, when he played alongside 23-time Grand Slam singles champion Serena Williams in the mixed doubles event.

Alcaraz, who won the New York title in 2022 and 2025, continues to wear a compression sleeve on his playing arm in a bid to protect his wrist.

Wrist injuries are notoriously problematic for tennis players - and taking a gamble when an issue arises in this delicate area can be very costly.

Alcaraz has needed to show patience as he dealt with what is thought to be tenosynovitis, where the sheath that protects the tendon on the inside of the wrist becomes inflamed.

Alcaraz generates huge amounts of power through his forehand, which puts a lot of load through the joint of his playing wrist.

But speaking on Friday, he insists he feels mentally ready to compete in five-set matches at the highest level.

"It's really challenging. Probably, you know, in terms of preparation and everything, it is not the best time," said Alcaraz, who will be seeded second at the tournament despite his extended lay-off.

"But we, my team and me, believe that I'm ready."

He added: "I've got to trust my team, I've got to trust my people that tell me it's going be fine.

"I just have to go 100%, and right now I think with the practices I have done so far, it's been all good.

"I'm trying to stay away from any fear and I'm playing normal."