Alcaraz says uncertainty over comeback fuelled 'intrusive thoughts'

Seven-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz revealed that the most challenging aspect of his five-month wrist injury layoff was dealing with "intrusive thoughts" about when he would return to competitive play. The 23-year-old Spaniard, who achieved the career Grand Slam by winning his seventh title at the Australian Open, is set to defend his U.S. Open crown in New York.

Alcaraz, who missed a majority of the clay court season and other tournaments including the French Open and Wimbledon, returned earlier in the week for a mixed doubles match alongside 23-time singles Grand Slam winner Serena Williams.

While Alcaraz initially appreciated the time spent with loved ones during his injury recovery, he admitted that the uncertainty surrounding his return caused him significant distress. He explained that once he began practicing again, the "intrusive thoughts" about his readiness for various upcoming tournaments became difficult to manage.

Alcaraz expressed concerns about whether he would be fit for events like Cincinnati, the U.S. Open, or even potentially missing a significant stretch of American hardcourt events. However, he concluded that the intrusive thoughts were the most challenging part of his recovery process.

The top-seeded Alcaraz begins his comeback match against Russia's Roman Safiullin, ranked 98th in the world. He could face opponents such as Arthur Fils, Ben Shelton, or even the 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in later rounds. The tournament will also be absent of world number one Jannik Sinner, Alcaraz's biggest rival, after the Italian withdrew due to a persistent right knee injury.

Alcaraz wished Sinner a speedy recovery and hoped to see him return to the court at his best in the future. The U.S. Open singles main draws commence on Sunday.