Alcaraz to return after four-month injury break at US Open

World No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz is set to make his comeback on the tennis court at the upcoming US Open, marking his return after a nearly four-month absence due to a wrist injury. The Spaniard has been sidelined since mid-April, missing key tournaments including the Masters 1000 events in Madrid and Rome, as well as the Grand Slams at Roland Garros and Wimbledon. His recovery also prevented him from participating in the summer Masters events in Montreal and Cincinnati.

Alcaraz, 23, will defend his 2023 US Open title in New York, aiming for his eighth Grand Slam singles title and third at Flushing Meadows. This venue holds special significance for him, as it was where he first won a Grand Slam title in 2022, becoming the youngest ATP world No. 1 in history. He has been intensifying his training in Murcia in recent weeks, joined by fellow young talent Holger Rune, who is also recovering from an Achilles tendon surgery.

The US Open is set to offer a record-breaking total prize fund of $108 million, a 20% increase from last year. The singles champions, both men and women, will each receive $5.5 million, a 10% rise from the previous year. Even players eliminated in the first round will see a significant boost, earning $140,000, a 27% increase compared to 2023. This substantial increase in prize money underscores the tournament's prestige and commitment to rewarding its competitors.

Alcaraz's return is highly anticipated by fans and experts alike. His performance at the US Open will be closely watched as he seeks to regain his dominant form and add another major title to his burgeoning career. His successful defense of the championship would solidify his position at the top of men's tennis.