Carlos Alcaraz has confirmed he will return to competitive tennis at the 2026 US Open, ending a four-month absence caused by a right wrist injury.
The reigning champion made the announcement on Thursday through a social media video with football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, using the familiar phrase “Here we go!” to confirm his comeback.
Alcaraz has been out of action since April, when he injured his right wrist during his opening match against Otto Virtanen at the Barcelona Open. The injury forced him to step away from competition and begin an extended rehabilitation programme.
Now, the Spaniard is ready to return on one of tennis’ biggest stages, although questions remain over how quickly he can rediscover his best form after such a lengthy spell away.
The US Open is a particularly significant tournament for Alcaraz. It was where he won his first Grand Slam title in 2022, and he will now attempt to defend his crown in New York.
His return could also reignite his increasingly intense rivalry with Jannik Sinner, with another high-profile meeting between the two young stars possible if both make deep runs.
Despite his lengthy absence, Alcaraz enters the tournament with an impressive record in 2026. He has won 22 of his 25 matches this season and owns a 24-3 career record at the US Open.
The Spaniard has also already achieved one of the biggest milestones of his young career, becoming the youngest man to complete the Career Grand Slam after winning the Australian Open earlier this year.
At 23, Alcaraz now has another challenge ahead of him. After four months away from the tour, he will return to the tournament where his Grand Slam journey began, with the chance to defend his title and remind the tennis world why he remains one of the sport’s biggest stars.
