The Canadian Open expressed dismay at the withdrawal of Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic from next week’s tournament in Montreal, saying the constant absence of top players from ATP 1000 events has become a wider issue for the sport.
While the end-of-season tournament in Asia is often plagued by last-minute exits, the lack of top form at this stage is surprising.
Sinner withdrew on Friday to prioritize his health almost two weeks after retaining his Wimbledon title, while 24-time major winner Djokovic continued to dominate his career, leaving the US Open series lacking in star power.
With Carlos Alcaraz still nursing a wrist injury that has sidelined him since April, the August 1-13 tournament will be without three of the sport’s top names after Alcaraz, Sinner and Djokovic also missed last year’s edition in Toronto.
“We are obviously very disappointed that Jannik and Novak will not be joining us in Montreal this year, especially after they also withdrew from last year’s tournament in Toronto,” tournament director Valerie Tetreault said.
“We respect their decisions and understand that, with such a tough schedule, the health of the players must remain a priority.
