What happened: Two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz announced Friday he will not defend his French Open title due to a right wrist injury. The Spanish player cited poor test results preventing his participation in Paris next month. Reactions highlight wrist injuries as particularly severe.

Why it matters: Alcaraz's withdrawal removes a top clay-court contender from the draw, reshaping the men's tournament field. It impacts fan expectations and media focus ahead of the Grand Slam. His absence underscores ongoing injury challenges for elite players in 2026.

What to watch: Watch for updated French Open odds and Alcaraz's recovery timeline.