Carlos Alcaraz is set to make his return to competitive tennis at the US Open after a four-month absence due to a right wrist injury. The world No. 3 will begin his title defense against Russia’s Roman Safiullin in the opening round at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Alcaraz was sidelined by inflammation in his wrist, which forced him to miss the French Open and Wimbledon this year. Despite the lengthy break, the Spanish player said his recovery and preparation have gone well, expressing confidence ahead of his first match since April.

“It will be a tough match, especially because it will be my first since April,” Alcaraz said. “He is a very talented player. I will prepare well and try to beat him. The preparation is going very well. I trained a lot before arriving in New York, with long and intense sessions, to see how my wrist would react. I am very excited and can’t wait for the tournament to start.”

Alcaraz admitted he initially avoided following tennis closely during his time off but eventually found himself drawn back to the sport. Speaking on the Andy Roddick podcast, he reflected on the contrast between his time away and his usual busy schedule: “The first two months went very well. I spent a lot of time with my family and friends, and I was able to do things I usually can’t do when I’m on the circuit. But at some point, I ended up missing the Tour. I tried not to follow tennis too closely, but I ended up watching Roland-Garros and Wimbledon. I missed the players, the teams, and the whole atmosphere at the tournaments.”

Alcaraz enters the US Open as one of the tournament favorites, particularly after key rival Jannik Sinner withdrew due to a knee injury. A year ago in New York, Alcaraz clinched his second US Open title by defeating Sinner in the final. He later secured the Australian Open title in February, marking his seventh Grand Slam victory.

Although Safiullin is ranked No. 99 in the world, Alcaraz is mindful of the challenge ahead and intends to approach the match with focus despite his long layoff. His performance will be closely watched as an indicator of his form and readiness to contend for another major title.