Spain’s top star Carlos Alcaraz has withdrawn from this week’s Davis Cup Final 8 tournament in Italy after suffering swelling in his right hamstring. The world number one and two-time Wimbledon champion made the announcement on X, expressing deep disappointment at missing the event in Bologna. Alcaraz said he had been eager to help Spain challenge for the title, calling national duty “the greatest thing there is.”

His withdrawal comes just two days after falling to Italian rival Jannik Sinner in the ATP Finals showdown in Turin, where Sinner claimed a straight-sets victory. The Italian world number two had already confirmed he would also skip the Davis Cup, and Lorenzo Musetti’s absence further weakens the defending champions’ squad as they attempt to secure a third consecutive crown.

With both Spain and Italy missing their top talents, the field in Bologna opens wider for contenders including Austria, France, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Argentina, and Germany. How will these withdrawals reshape the battle for one of tennis’s most coveted team trophies? Visit www.jocomms.com for more news