In a move that has sent ripples through the tennis world, Carlos Alcaraz, the world No. 2 and five-time Grand Slam champion, announced his withdrawal from the 2025 National Bank Open in Toronto, a key ATP Masters 1000 event kicking off on July 27. The 22-year-old Spaniard, fresh off a grueling Wimbledon final loss to Jannik Sinner, cited the need for physical and mental recovery as the driving force behind his decision. “After many consecutive weeks of competition without rest, I will not be able to play in Toronto this year,” Alcaraz shared in a heartfelt social media post. “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!”
Alcaraz’s withdrawal adds him to a growing list of high-profile absentees, including world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, Novak Djokovic, Jack Draper, and Jordan Thompson, leaving the Toronto event scrambling to fill the void of star power. The expanded 12-day, 96-player format, designed to elevate the tournament’s prestige, now faces challenges with four of the top six players missing. Tournament director Karl Hale expressed his disappointment, noting, “It’s disappointing to lose a player of Carlos’ quality, as we know our fans were looking forward to watching him.” He remained optimistic, however, adding, “Although he has been on the scene for a while, he’s still at the beginning of his career, and there will be plenty of opportunities for Canadians to see him again in the future.”
The decision comes after a relentless season for Alcaraz, who boasts a 48-6 record in 2025, according to the ATP Win/Loss Index. His campaign included five titles, with standout victories at the Italian Open, Roland Garros, Monte-Carlo, Queen’s Club, and Rotterdam. His 24-match winning streak across clay and grass was halted by Sinner in a thrilling Wimbledon final on July 13, where Alcaraz fell 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4, missing out on a historic three-peat. The loss, coupled with the physical toll of a demanding schedule, prompted Alcaraz to prioritize his health. “I’m really sad to have to miss the National Bank Open in Toronto,” he said in a statement released by organizers. “I tried my best to be ready for the tournament, as it’s one I really enjoy playing, but it comes just too soon for me as I recover after Wimbledon.”
Alcaraz’s choice reflects a broader trend among top players, with Sinner citing health concerns, Djokovic nursing a groin injury, and Draper sidelined by an arm issue. The grueling ATP calendar, particularly with the expanded Masters 1000 format, has drawn criticism from players like Alcaraz, who earlier this year remarked, “The one-week ones are better. Some will think that in two weeks there are days of rest, but that is not the case. You train, you have to mentally prepare for the game… you’re not resting, really. It’s two full weeks.” His withdrawal from Toronto, his second consecutive absence from the event after skipping the 2024 Montreal edition post-Olympics, underscores the physical and mental strain of the modern tennis schedule.
The Spaniard’s focus now shifts to the Cincinnati Open, starting August 7, and the US Open, where he won his first major in 2022. His strategic retreat is seen as a calculated move to ensure peak performance in New York, where he aims to close the 3,430-point gap with Sinner in the race for the world No. 1 ranking. “I’m preparing for the American tournaments, in order to get in top shape for the US Open,” Alcaraz said, signaling his intent to challenge Sinner, who faces pressure to defend titles in Cincinnati and the US Open. Posts on X reflect fan sentiment, with one user praising Alcaraz’s honesty: “Respect to Alcaraz for being honest about mental fatigue. More athletes should speak up like this.” Another noted, “Smart move, Carlitos! The new generation is setting healthy examples.”
As Alcaraz takes time to heal minor muscle issues and recharge mentally, his absence leaves Alexander Zverev and Taylor Fritz as the top seeds in Toronto, joined by Lorenzo Musetti and Holger Rune. Fans, while disappointed, are already looking forward to his return. With his eyes set on reclaiming the top ranking and adding to his Grand Slam tally, Alcaraz’s decision to prioritize recovery could pave the way for a triumphant hard-court season, starting with Cincinnati and culminating in New York’s electric atmosphere.
Leave a Reply