Several of tennis’ top stars have sent messages to Carlos Alcaraz following his withdrawal from Roland Garros.
Jannik Sinner immediately sent well wishes to Alcaraz despite becoming the overwhelming favourite to win the Grand Slam now.
He was not the only major star, either, as Rafael Nadal also sent words of support to Alcaraz during his difficult time.
At the Madrid Open, Casper Ruud has also sent a very nice message of support to Alcaraz following his wrist injury.
Casper Ruud’s message for Carlos Alcaraz
Ruud comfortably came through his first match at the Madrid Open against Jaume Munar in the second round.
The Norwegian dropped just one game in a 6-0 6-1 mauling of the Spaniard as he began his title defence in Madrid.
How worried are you about Carlos Alcaraz’s injury?
Carlos Alcaraz will miss Rome and Roland Garros…
After the match, he was asked about Alcaraz’s situation and he sent a touching message to his Spanish rival.
“Regarding Carlos, it’s really sad for him, for tennis, and for the tournament, for the fans. Not to be able to see him this year to defend the title of two years in a row,” he said.
“I feel with him, I didn’t have anything as serious as this but last week I wasn’t able to play Barcelona because of injury and you quickly realise that the most important thing for us is to stay healthy and happy mentally and physically.
“When you’re not feeling good and you have injuries, it can be really tough. I wish him the best and a speedy recovery and to stay strong. He’s such a joy to watch and to be around in the tournaments. He will be missed for sure.”
Ruud would have likely been drawn in the same section of the draw as Alcaraz in Madrid, so he will be looking to take the opportunity to defend his title.
Casper Ruud and Carlos Alcaraz’s head-to-head record
Like many top players on the ATP Tour, Ruud has struggled against the dominant Spaniard across his entire career.
Ruud and Alcaraz have played seven games on the ATP Tour, with the Norwegian tasting victory on one occasion.
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That sole victory came at the ATP Finals in 2024, as Ruud beat Alcaraz in straight sets to help knock the star out of the group stage.
Alcaraz’s victories have also come on bigger stages, with two Masters events, as well as a key win in the 2022 US Open final.
Ruud and Alcaraz most recently met at Indian Wells this year, which saw the Spaniard prevail in three sets.
