Alexander Zverev has enjoyed a strong start to his 2026 season, reaching the semifinals of the Australian Open.
Zverev lost to Carlos Alcaraz at the Grand Slam in Melbourne, suffering a devastating five-set defeat to the Spaniard at Rod Laver Arena.
Alcaraz went on to win the Australian Open final against Novak Djokovic, who was also involved in a five-set semifinal thriller with Jannik Sinner.
Zverev “gave it everything” against Alcaraz, but it wasn’t enough as his dreams of a maiden Grand Slam title faded away once more.
Following that exit, the German has now decided to take major action regarding his short-term playing schedule.
Has Alexander Zverev just blown his last chance to win a Grand Slam?
Alexander Zverev makes smart Rotterdam Open withdrawal
Zverev has withdrawn from the Rotterdam Open, having previously committed to the ATP 500 tournament later this month.
Confirming the move, the world number four said: “I find it incredibly unfortunate that I have to make this decision.
“At the ABN AMRO Open, I was already given a chance as a young player, and that’s why I always enjoy returning.
“However, given my history with my ankle, I have to prioritise my recovery and can’t take any risks. I wish everyone in Rotterdam a wonderful week.”
It is a very wise decision from the 28-year-old, who will need time to rest and recover following his stay in Melbourne.
Risking his ankle would be a foolish decision from the 24-time ATP champion, particularly at such an early stage of the 2026 season.
Rotterdam Open suffers double blow after Alexander Zverev withdrawal
While it is a smart move from Zverev, it is a real blow for the Rotterdam Open, which has already suffered the withdrawal of Alcaraz.
Alcaraz is the defending champion of the tournament in the Netherlands, but will not return to defend his title following his run at the Australian Open.
He played the longest Australian Open semifinal of all time against Zverev earlier this month, with their Rotterdam withdrawals certainly not coming as a major surprise.
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One positive is that it will pave the way for a new champion, with another player now able to step up in the absence of the world number one.
Ultimately, however, it isn’t exactly a good look for the tournament, while attending fans are certain to be hugely disappointed at not being able to see the likes of Alcaraz and Zverev on the court in Rotterdam.
Notably, the issue has not been limited to the ATP Tour, with WTA stars Jessica Pegula and Madison Keys withdrawing from Qatar.
Their fellow American Iva Jovic has taken the same action for this month’s Qatar Open, along with Naomi Osaka and world number one Aryna Sabalenka.
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