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World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz will miss the Australian Open with a foot injury.
The 19-year-old Spaniard, who won his first Grand Slam title at the US Open in September, revealed that he suffered a muscle injury in his right leg during pre-season training.
Writing on social media Alcaraz said: “It’s time to deal with another blow. When I was at my best in the pre-season, I took an injury through chance, an unnatural movement in training.
“I have been working hard to reach my best level for Australia, but unfortunately, I will not be able to play Care A2+ Kooyong. [warm-up event] or the Australian Open. It’s hard, but I have to be optimistic, recover and look forward. See you in 2024 @australianopen.”
Alcaraz rose to the top of the rankings in a remarkable 2022 season, becoming the youngest person to hold the number one spot after defeating Casper Ruud in the final in New York.
The teenager suffered a blow late in the campaign when he tore an abdominal muscle, forcing him to miss the ATP Finals and the Davis Cup Final.
The timing of this latest injury was unfortunate and robbed the Australian Open of one of its most exciting drawcards.
Alcaraz’s absence means his compatriot Rafael Nadal will be the top seed to defend his title at Melbourne Park, with the tournament starting on January 16.
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