Alcaraz returns to US Open, Davydenko says victory isn’t certain
Alcaraz returns to the US Open after a wrist injury hiatus, but Nikolay Davydenko warns a title is not guaranteed.
23.08.2026 — Carlos Alcaraz has confirmed he will return to the US Open after a lengthy layoff, a move that, with Jannik Sinner absent, has pushed him among the tournament favourites in New York.
Despite that status, former world No. 3 Nikolay Davydenko warned that Sinner’s withdrawal does not automatically clear an easy path to the title for the Spaniard.
Alcaraz has not played a competitive match since April, withdrawing from the Barcelona tournament with a wrist injury, and Davydenko singled out the opening rounds as a potential stumbling block as the 20-time ATP event draw begins.
Former top player urges caution
“Many Alcaraz fans want to see him lift the trophy, especially because Sinner is not here. But I don't think it will be easy for him,” Davydenko said, emphasising that public expectation and tournament reality can differ.
He added that the key will be how quickly Alcaraz finds match rhythm after months off. “If he manages to get through the early rounds and, of course, gradually regain his form as the tournament progresses, then he might achieve a good result. But it's impossible to say with 100 percent certainty that he will win the US Open,” Davydenko said.
The combination of rust from inactivity and the pressure of favourite status means Alcaraz will enter Flushing Meadows watched closely; whether he can convert potential into a Grand Slam trophy will be one of the storylines of this year's event.
Photo: press material from the event
