Carlos Alcaraz is training at just 55% intensity ahead of the US Open, according to a Spanish tennis legend quoted by Tennis365.com. The 21-year-old Spaniard, ranked world No. 3, has been dealing with a left leg issue that has kept him off the court for weeks. Despite the reduced workload, the source suggested Alcaraz could still "go, play, and surprise everyone like he's done his whole life."

The revelation comes as Alcaraz prepares to defend his US Open title in New York, where he will face a brutal draw that includes top seed Novak Djokovic and rising star Jannik Sinner. The tournament begins on 26 August 2024, with the final scheduled for 8 September 2024.

What the Spanish legend said

The unnamed Spanish tennis legend, who has worked closely with Alcaraz in the past, told Tennis365.com that the young star’s training sessions have been deliberately scaled back. "Carlos trained at 55% last week," the source confirmed. "Maybe he'll go, play [the US Open], and surprise everyone like he's done his whole life."

This is not the first time Alcaraz has faced fitness concerns ahead of a major tournament. In 2023, he withdrew from the Canadian Open due to a left leg injury, only to return and win the US Open weeks later. His ability to recover quickly has become a hallmark of his career, but this time, the stakes are higher—he is defending a Grand Slam title.

The injury timeline

- Early August 2024: Alcaraz misses training sessions in Madrid due to a left leg problem.
- Mid-August 2024: Reports emerge of reduced training intensity, with the Spanish legend confirming the 55% workload.
- 26 August 2024: US Open begins in New York.
- 8 September 2024: US Open final.

Alcaraz has not publicly addressed the reports, but his coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, has previously emphasized the importance of managing his workload to avoid burnout. Ferrero’s strategy has paid off—Alcaraz has already won two Grand Slam titles (US Open 2022 and Wimbledon 2023) and reached the French Open final twice.

What this means for Pakistan’s tennis fans

For Pakistani tennis enthusiasts, Alcaraz’s participation in the US Open is a rare opportunity to watch a player who has redefined modern tennis. His aggressive baseline game and relentless energy have made him a fan favorite, and his rivalry with Djokovic and Sinner adds to the excitement.

If Alcaraz does compete, Pakistanis can watch the matches live on PTV Sports and Geo Super, which typically broadcast major tennis events. The US Open will also be available on Tennis TV and ESPN+ for those with international subscriptions.

What to watch next

- 26 August 2024: US Open draw announcement and first-round matches.
- Early September 2024: Quarterfinal and semifinal matchups.
- 8 September 2024: Men’s singles final.

Fans should keep an eye on Alcaraz’s press conferences and social media for updates on his fitness. If he does play, his performance will be closely scrutinized, especially given his reduced training load.

Should you expect a surprise?

The Spanish legend’s comments suggest Alcaraz is not at full strength, but his history of defying expectations makes this a compelling storyline. If he does play, it could be a masterclass in grit and determination. If he withdraws, it would mark the first time he has missed a Grand Slam since winning Wimbledon in 2023.

For now, tennis fans—especially in Pakistan—will have to wait and see. One thing is certain: Alcaraz’s journey to the US Open is far from ordinary.

What Pakistan’s tennis fans can do

- Check schedules: US Open matches start at 9:00 PM Pakistan time (New York is 9 hours behind).
- Streaming options: PTV Sports and Geo Super for free-to-air broadcasts; Tennis TV or ESPN+ for international coverage.
- Follow updates: Alcaraz’s official Instagram @carlosalcaraz and Twitter @alcarazcarlos for real-time updates.
- Bet wisely: If you’re into sports betting, Alcaraz’s odds may fluctuate based on his fitness reports in the coming days.

Key questions to watch

- Will Alcaraz play despite the reduced training load?
- How will his left leg hold up against Djokovic and Sinner?
- Can he defend his US Open title with a weakened squad?

The answers to these questions will shape the narrative of this year’s US Open—and Alcaraz’s career.