Carlos Alcaraz’s US Open 2026 Title Defense in Doubt After Injury, Says Andy Roddick

Carlos Alcaraz’s defending US Open 2026 title is under threat after Andy Roddick dismissed his chances of breaking Jannik Sinner’s form. The Spaniard, sidelined since a wrist injury at the Barcelona Open in April, faces an uphill battle to regain match fitness before New York.

Why Roddick doubts Alcaraz’s US Open 2026 run

Roddick, on his Served with Andy Roddick podcast, called Sinner the "overwhelming favorite" even if Alcaraz returns. His reasoning? No player reaches Major-winning form without consistent match play. Alcaraz has played zero tournaments since Barcelona-zero.

Alcaraz’s injury derails a dominant 2026 start

The Spaniard was unstoppable early this season: Australian Open champion, Qatar Open winner, and Cincinnati/US Open 2025 titleholder. But his streak ended at Indian Wells (semifinals), followed by a third-round exit at Miami and a Monte-Carlo Masters runner-up finish. Then, in Barcelona, tragedy struck mid-tournament.

Sinner’s 2026 dominance vs. Alcaraz’s zero prep

Sinner, meanwhile, has won five Masters 1000s this year and defended his Wimbledon title. His only blip? A shocking second-round French Open exit-despite serving for the match at 5-1 in the third set. Roddick’s point: Sinner’s hardcourt rhythm is locked in; Alcaraz’s isn’t.**

Alcaraz’s return timeline: When will he play again?

The Spaniard skipped the Canadian Open (first summer hardcourt Masters 1000) but posted training videos recently. His return isn’t guaranteed-defending two titles after six weeks off is a tall order. Yet, with his generational talent, a deep run isn’t impossible.

The stakes: Can Alcaraz break Sinner’s US Open streak?

Alcaraz beat Sinner in both the 2025 Cincinnati and US Open finals. But this year’s Sinner is a different player-sharper, more consistent. Roddick’s take? Match reps matter more than titles. Without them, Alcaraz’s best version might stay on the sidelines.