Carlos Alcaraz Secures Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award Amid Uncertainty Over Roland Garros Fitness

Carlos Alcaraz wins 2026 Laureus Sportsman of the Year but admits his French Open presence is "up in the air." Read the latest on his wrist injury.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 21, 2026, 3:45 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Tennis365

A Career Milestone in the Spanish Capital

Carlos Alcaraz accepted the prestigious Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award in Madrid on Monday, joining an elite group of tennis legends that includes Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic. The 23-year-old was selected for the honor ahead of a shortlist that included Jannik Sinner, cyclist Tadej Pogačar, and sprinter Armand Duplantis. This victory marks Alcaraz’s second Laureus accolade, following his 2022 Breakthrough of the Year win, and recognizes a stellar 2025 season in which he achieved a 71-9 win-loss record, captured two Grand Slams, and finished the year as the world No. 1.

Reflecting on the Journey to the Top

During his acceptance speech, Alcaraz emphasized that the award represents more than just statistical success. He credited his family and coaching staff for supporting him through both championship victories and difficult periods of physical rehabilitation. The Spaniard noted that his childhood dream was not only to win trophies but to learn from the work and the people who stayed by his side. The ceremony provided a rare moment of celebration for the player, who was forced to withdraw from the Madrid Open just days prior due to the injury sustained in Barcelona.

Medical Scans to Dictate the Short-Term Future

The celebratory atmosphere was tempered by Alcaraz’s candid assessment of his current physical state. Since sustaining significant wrist pain during a first-set medical timeout against Otto Virtanen in Barcelona, the Spaniard has been sidelined. He confirmed that his participation in the Italian Open—scheduled to begin on 5 May—and the French Open remains entirely dependent on the results of an upcoming diagnostic scan. Alcaraz stated that while the days feel long, he is attempting to remain patient and will not force a return if it risks long-term damage to his hitting arm.