World number two Carlos Alcaraz has added his name to the growing list of top players pulling out of next week’s Canadian Open in Toronto, citing the need to recover from muscle issues following a gruelling stretch of competition.
The 22-year-old Spaniard announced his withdrawal on Monday, just weeks after his defeat to Jannik Sinner in the Wimbledon final ended a remarkable 24-match winning streak. Alcaraz had previously lifted titles at the Italian Open, French Open, and Queen’s Club, making his absence in Toronto a significant blow to the event.
“After many consecutive weeks of competition without rest, I will not be able to play in Toronto this year,” the five-time Grand Slam champion wrote on social media. “I have small muscle issues and need to recover physically and mentally for what comes next. To the tournament and my fans in Canada I am very sorry — I will see you next year.”
His withdrawal leaves the Canadian Open, a key lead-up event to the U.S. Open, without four of the world’s top six male players. World number one Jannik Sinner, number five Jack Draper, and number six Novak Djokovic have all already withdrawn.
Sinner stated he needed to prioritise his health, while Draper is nursing an arm injury. Djokovic, meanwhile, is recovering from a groin problem sustained during his semi-final run at Wimbledon.
The Canadian Open begins on Sunday and runs until 7 August, with the U.S. Open set to follow shortly after, starting on 24 August.