Several top tennis stars have pulled out of the upcoming National Bank Open tournaments in Toronto and Montreal. World No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz, top-ranked Jannik Sinner, Novak Djokovic, Jack Draper, and women's No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka have all withdrawn from the prestigious events.
Alcaraz announced his withdrawal on Monday, saying he needs more rest after his recent Wimbledon final appearance on July 13. This comes right after other big names dropped out of the ATP Masters hardcourt tournament.
“After many consecutive weeks of competition without rest, I will not be able to play in Toronto this year,” Alcaraz wrote on X. “I have small muscle issues and I need to recover physically and mentally for what comes next. To the tournament and to my fans in Canada I am very sorry, I will see you next year!”
Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!Sinner, who beat Alcaraz at Wimbledon, won't defend his Toronto title due to an elbow injury from a fall at the All England Club. "Winning that title in Toronto two years ago was the start of a really special moment for me, but after speaking with my team, I have to recover," Sinner explained.
The tournament took another hit when Djokovic, a four-time champion, backed out citing a groin injury. Britain's Draper also withdrew to heal his injured forearm.
The women's tournament in Montreal hasn't been spared either, with world No. 1 Sabalenka joining the list of absentees.
Both tournaments will kick off with qualifying rounds this weekend, though they'll now be missing many fan favourites. This string of withdrawals has significantly impacted what are usually highlight events of the tennis calendar.
Big names missing from Toronto, Montreal tournaments- Carlos Alcaraz - to rest
- Jannik Sinner - to rest
- Novak Djokovic - fatigue
- Jack Draper - arm injury
- Aryna Sabalenka - fatigue
- Ons Jabeur - change in schedule
- Paula Badosa - injury
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