Injury demons to keep Musetti from Wimbledon

Lorenzo Musetti will miss Wimbledon, joining fellow high-profile absentee Carlos Alcaraz on the sidelines when the grass-court major.kicks off in less than a fortnight.

The 15th-ranked Italian who stood fifth last season has not competed since taking a straight-set loss to Casper Ruud in the Rome fourth round a month ago while carrying a thigh injury.

The 2024 Wimbledon semi-finalist who lost in the first round a year ago explained his health situation:“I want to update you on my recovery from the injury I sustained in Rome: rehabilitation is going very well and the medical results are encouraging.

“Unfortunately, as I have not yet been able to begin a full athletic training program, and after careful evaluation, we have come to the difficult conclusion that I will not be able to participate in Wimbledon this year. 

“It is not an easy decision, but it is the right one. My priority is to return to the court at 100 per cent. Thank you for your continued support — see you soon.”

The pullout did have a silver lining for Italy, with 2021 All England club finalist Matteo Berrettini (49th and coming back from injury) now into the main draw as a result of his compatriot’s pullout.