Heat on Sinner as Alcaraz’s absence prompts the question: who can fill the void?

The men’s game thrives on big rivalries but with the world No 2 missing through injury, the prospects of another top-10 player stepping up appear bleak

Jannik Sinner is not a man for great displays of emotion, but not even the world No 1 could maintain his poker face this time. In the aftermath of an arduous opening win in Madrid on Friday, Sinner learned of the most significant news of the year – Carlos Alcaraz’s withdrawal from the French Open because of a right wrist injury – during his on-court interview.

Sinner’s face immediately fell and he was clearly still processing the information after giving his answer. Later, in his press conference, the Italian lamented Alcaraz’s absence with sincerity: “Tennis needs Carlos,” he said. “Tennis is a much better sport when he’s around.”