Carlos Alcaraz has warned that tennis’s increasingly packed schedule is heading in the wrong direction and is pushing players too hard.
The world No. 3, who will open his campaign at the Shanghai Masters on Saturday, was speaking two days after successfully defending his Japan Open title. It was his third title of an injury‑hit year that saw him sit out for four and a half months between April and August with a wrist problem.
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner announced this week that he has ended his season early because of a knee issue.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Sky Sports commentator Liam Broady says it is a blow to the game that Sinner’s 2026 has ended prematurely
In an interview, Alcaraz said: “One of the reasons we have seen players getting injured is that the ATP officials are sometimes pushing us too much to play many tournaments and many matches. It’s getting in the wrong direction. I just wish Jannik the best for these months, to be in good shape for the next season. Hopefully we’ll see him soon, but they have to take a closer look at what’s happening on the tour together with the players.”
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Highlights of Alcaraz’s victory over Jiri Lehecka in the final of the Japan Open
Djokovic: Sinner has to think long term
Sinner has not played since beating Alexander Zverev in the Wimbledon final in July.
Novak Djokovic, who claimed his 102nd career title at the China Open on Tuesday, commented on Sinner’s early season closure: “He’s been the best player in the world, a dominant force for the last couple of years alongside Carlos [Alcaraz]. Tennis certainly misses him, but he has to think long term. That’s smart, because as someone who always tries to keep the big picture in mind, I really support that mindset. It’s important to give yourself more years in your career so you have a better chance to achieve all your objectives. If you’re away from the tour for a long time and then come back, you have to deal with more things than usual. You’re constantly evaluating with your team. When you get the green light to compete, it’s mental—you’re on the court wondering whether you’re completely healed and free to push.”
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Sinner took to social media to let fans know his season is over as he looks to recover from a knee issue
Also Read
- City Managers Hedge on Statement After Manchester City Guilty Verdict
- Nana Patekar’s Enduring Admiration for Virat Kohli Resurfaces After His Passing
- Three Key Takeaways as Kings Drop Home Opener to Panthers in 2-1 Loss
- Khaldoon al-Mubarak: Navigating Diplomatic Tightropes and a Rare Misstep in Manchester City’s Legal Battles
