Carlos Alcaraz confirmed what many feared: he will not play the Davis Cup in Bologna. The Murcia native announced his withdrawal on Tuesday after suffering a hamstring edema in his right leg during the ATP Finals final against Jannik Sinner.
The news hit the Spanish team hard. Everyone counted on his presence as a key boost in the fight for the trophy.
His health keeps him out of competition
According to Mundo Deportivo, the tennis star posted a heartfelt message on X. “I’m very sorry to announce that I won’t be able to play the Davis Cup in Bologna… I have a hamstring edema in my right leg, and the medical recommendation is not to compete.” His message was clear and painful. The young world No. 1 is prioritizing his health, though he doesn’t hide his disappointment.
Siento muchísimo anunciar que no voy a poder jugar con España la Copa Davis en Bolonia… 🥲 Tengo un edema en el isquiotibial de la pierna derecha y la recomendación médica es no competir. Siempre he dicho que jugar por España es lo más grande que hay y me hacía mucha ilusión… pic.twitter.com/ftWvwGUYcu
— Carlos Alcaraz (@carlosalcaraz) November 18, 2025
Spain will debut on Thursday against the Czech Republic, a tough opponent with three players inside the world top 35: Jiri Lehecka (17), Jakub Mensik (19), and Tomas Machac (32). Alcaraz’s absence completely shifts the outlook. Team captain David Ferrer acknowledged it: “It doesn’t make us favorites because this is a team competition. But it’s true that having him helps, and it’s better to have him than not.”
Alcaraz has endured a demanding season. His schedule was packed with high-level tournaments, and his body is feeling the effects. The hamstring injury is a warning sign. The medical staff recommends rest, and the player is following that guidance. “I’ve always said that playing for Spain is the greatest thing, and I was really excited to help fight for the trophy… I’m going home hurt,” he added.
His absence forces Spain to adjust its strategy. Without its main star, responsibility will fall on players like Alejandro Davidovich, Roberto Bautista, and Marcel Granollers. The challenge won’t be easy, but the Davis Cup is unpredictable.
Alcaraz, meanwhile, will focus on his recovery. His goal is to return at 100% for next season. The Davis Cup will have to wait. Spain will fight on with what it has.
