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Alcaraz Returns to US Open, Embracing Fear and Trusting His Game Image: Jeenah Moon (REUTERS)
🇪🇸 Spain /Sports

Alcaraz Returns to US Open, Embracing Fear and Trusting His Game

From El País · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Ongoing story
  • Carlos Alcaraz is set to return to competition at the US Open after a four-and-a-half-month absence due to a wrist injury.
  • He acknowledges the mental challenges of his recovery but emphasizes his commitment to his playing style and identity.
  • Alcaraz faces Roman Safiullin in his first match, viewing the tournament as a crucial test to regain his competitive form.

Carlos Alcaraz steps back onto the court at the US Open this Monday, facing Roman Safiullin, marking his return after a significant four-and-a-half-month hiatus. The young Spanish talent, who last played in April, admits the time away has been "long" but expresses a renewed sense of confidence and readiness.

It’s been long…

— Carlos AlcarazDescribing his four-and-a-half-month absence from competition.

"I came here with the feeling that I needed to compete, to train with these guys, to feel the competition again," Alcaraz stated in a press conference. His absence, stemming from a wrist injury, disrupted a promising start to his season, including a strong performance in Australia and plans for the clay court swing. This period away was not just physically challenging but also mentally taxing, with "intrusive thoughts" making training difficult.

I came here with the feeling that I needed to compete, to train with these guys, to feel the competition again… And this is a test.

— Carlos AlcarazExplaining his mindset upon returning to the US Open.

Despite the setbacks and the logical fears associated with returning from a lengthy injury, Alcaraz remains resolute about his playing style. "I haven't changed anything regarding technique," he asserted. "I just want to feel like myself, because that's important. I must maintain my identity and be myself, and do it with the hope that I will have a long career. We are going to see the usual Carlitos."

The first month was hard, because I couldn't do anything with my right arm, but at the same time I enjoyed it; I enjoyed being with my family and friends, being at home.

— Carlos AlcarazReflecting on the initial phase of his injury recovery.

The challenge of competing at a Grand Slam after such a break is substantial. Alcaraz acknowledged that his preparation might not be at its peak, but he and his team believe he is ready. The decision to postpone his return from Cincinnati to New York, where he has previously found success, underscores the importance of this tournament for his comeback. He aims to take it step by step, focusing on rediscovering his best form while embracing the competitive spirit that defines him.

intrusive thoughts that are very difficult to face

— Carlos AlcarazDescribing the mental challenges during his recovery period.
About this summary

Originally published by El País in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.

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