Jannik Sinner has described the absence of Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic from the Madrid Open as 'tough to swallow' for the tournament, with the world number two acknowledging that their absence makes a significant difference to the event.
Alcaraz was forced to withdraw from the Madrid Open for the second consecutive year after sustaining a right wrist injury during his opening match at the Barcelona Open. The 22-year-old Spaniard attended the Laureus Sports Awards in Madrid on Monday wearing a cast, where he was named World Sportsman of the Year. In post-event interviews, Alcaraz was non-committal about competing at Roland Garros, saying he would prioritise his long-term health over rushing back.
Sinner, who also attended the Laureus Awards, said he spoke with Alcaraz but avoided discussing the injury. 'I think it's also very, very private,' Sinner said. 'Hopefully it can help him to get back as soon as possible. It's a very big pity to not have him here and also Novak, the two biggest stars in tennis.'
With Alcaraz and Djokovic absent, Sinner has an enhanced opportunity to win his first Madrid Open title, adding to his recent victories in Paris, Indian Wells, Miami and Monte Carlo. 'I always go day by day,' Sinner said. 'We have tough challenges in front of me, starting from the first day.'
