Carlos Alcaraz’s struggles extend beyond injury.

Italian tennis officials raise concerns over mental resilience during prolonged absence.

Carlos Alcaraz, once hailed as the future of tennis, has been sidelined for nearly five months after sustaining a wrist injury at the Barcelona Open in April. His absence has already cost him appearances at the French Open and Wimbledon, and his withdrawal from the Canadian and Cincinnati Masters has sparked fresh doubts about his readiness for the upcoming US Open.

While the Spaniard has occasionally been spotted training, speculation has grown about whether his challenges extend beyond physical recovery. Gianni Daniele, president of the medical commission of the Italian Tennis Federation, recently suggested that Alcaraz may be grappling with “mental weakness” and even hinted at possible depression. Speaking to Italian media, Daniele argued that the uncertainty about the exact nature of Alcaraz’s injury, combined with difficulties in regaining his former intensity, may have created a vicious cycle that eroded his confidence.

Daniele’s remarks highlight a troubling possibility: that the young star’s battle is not only against injury but also against self-doubt. “When confidence fades, doubts take over,” he explained, noting that such struggles can prevent even top players from returning to their peak form.

This is not the first time Alcaraz has faced criticism from Italian tennis officials. In June, federation president Angelo Binaghi contrasted Alcaraz’s reported purchase of a luxury yacht with Jannik Sinner’s more modest lifestyle, implying that the Spaniard’s priorities may be misplaced. Daniele’s latest comments also drew comparisons between Alcaraz and Sinner, noting that while Sinner has taken breaks due to physical strain, his training regimen reflects a different approach to recovery.

The broader narrative suggests that Alcaraz’s journey back to the court may be as much psychological as physical. For a player who rose rapidly to world No. 1, the weight of expectation combined with injury setbacks can be overwhelming. His ability to overcome this period of uncertainty will be crucial not only for his career but also for the competitive balance of men’s tennis.

As the US Open approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see whether Alcaraz can silence the doubts and reclaim his place among the sport’s elite. His comeback, if successful, could serve as a powerful reminder of resilience in the face of adversity.