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Jannik Sinner was asked if he has now become a favorite at the upcoming French Open tournament after the withdrawal of arch-rival Carlos Alcaraz.
Sinner made the comments after learning of the Spaniard's withdrawal from the 2026 Roland Garros and the preceding Italian Open in Rome due to a right wrist injury.
Alcaraz, the two-time defending French Open champion, announced the decision on social media following medical tests, ending his clay-court season early.
Sinner on whether Alcaraz’s French Open withdrawal makes him favorite
During his recent media appearance, Sinner said:
“It’s not the case to talk about this now. We are in Madrid. I try to go as far as I can here & then we talk about this in Paris.”
The tennis sensation expressed regret over the absence of his biggest rival, stating the sport's reliance on the 22-year-old Spaniard. He added:
“Tennis needs Carlos. Tennis is a much better sport when he’s around.”
Sinner added that Alcaraz’s presence changes how he views the draw and makes matches more compelling, even if the two top seeds would likely only meet in the final. The 24-year-old described the news as “very tough” and “sad for tennis,” while wishing Alcaraz a speedy recovery and predicting he would return stronger.
ALSO READ: Coco Gauff reacts to Carlos Alcaraz's unfortunate withdrawal from French Open following injury
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