Spanish tennis star Carlos Alcaraz has expressed his readiness to compete in the upcoming Shanghai Masters, stating that he is "mentally fresh" after a successful return from a wrist injury. Alcaraz, ranked world number three, recently won his first title since April at the Japan Open, defeating Jiri Lehecka 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 in the final. This victory has boosted his confidence as he prepares to face either Juan Manuel Cerundolo of Argentina or qualifier Nicolas Mejia of Colombia in the second round.
Alcaraz's road to the Shanghai Masters has been marked by challenges, including his injury layoff and a packed tennis schedule. The 23-year-old has previously criticized the autumn "Asian swing" that follows the US Open, stating that it has never been his strongest period. However, he is determined to make an impact in Shanghai, where he has never advanced beyond the quarter-finals. His main rivals in the draw include world number two Alexander Zverev and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic.
Novak Djokovic has praised Jannik Sinner's decision to end his 2026 season due to a knee injury, calling it "smart" and "big-picture" thinking. Sinner's withdrawal has opened up the draw for other competitors, including Alcaraz and Djokovic. The Serbian veteran is seeking to add to his record four Shanghai Masters titles, although he has not won the event since 2018. Djokovic recently claimed his 102nd career title in Beijing and is looking to build on that momentum.
Alcaraz's physical condition has been a concern since his return from injury, but he reports feeling "very good" and "mentally fresh." He has been training well and is optimistic about his chances in Shanghai. The Spanish star has faced criticism for his schedule and has spoken about the challenges of competing at a high level throughout the year.
The Shanghai Masters is one of the most prestigious events on the tennis calendar, and Alcaraz is eager to make a deep run in the tournament. He will face stiff competition from top players, including Djokovic, Zverev, and others. Alcaraz's performance in Shanghai will be closely watched, particularly after his successful return from injury.
Djokovic is not the only top player to have recently won a title, as Alexander Zverev has also been in strong form. The German star will be a contender for the Shanghai Masters title, along with other top players. The tournament is expected to be highly competitive, with many players vying for the championship.
The Shanghai Masters will kick off with a number of exciting matchups, including Djokovic's second-round match against Poland's Hubert Hurkacz. Alcaraz's match against Cerundolo or Mejia will also be closely watched. The tournament promises to be an exciting event, with many top players competing for the title.
Key points
- Carlos Alcaraz is feeling "mentally fresh" ahead of the Shanghai Masters.
- Novak Djokovic has praised Jannik Sinner's decision to end his 2026 season.
- Alcaraz has never advanced beyond the quarter-finals in Shanghai.
