New Delhi, 03 February (H.S.):

Reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz will not defend his ABN AMRO Open title in Rotterdam this year, as confirmed by tournament organizers on Monday.

The Spanish superstar, fresh from a grueling Australian Open campaign, has elected to take a brief hiatus before resuming competition. Alcaraz captured his maiden Melbourne crown—his first Australian Open title—defeating Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 in the final on Sunday, January 31, 2026, thereby becoming the youngest man in the Open Era to complete a career Grand Slam at age 22.

Alcaraz's absence dashes hopes of a repeat performance at Rotterdam Ahoy, where he clinched his first indoor ATP title in 2025 by overcoming Alex de Minaur in three sets. That victory marked a career milestone for the Spaniard in the ATP 500 event, scheduled for February 9-16, 2026.

In an official statement released Monday, ABN AMRO Open organizers expressed regret while wishing Alcaraz well: Carlos Alcaraz won't defend his title in Rotterdam. The Australian Open champion concluded that after his exertions over the past two weeks, he needs more time before returning to action. We wish Carlos a swift recovery. Top-10 contenders Alexander Zverev, Felix Auger-Aliassime, and Alex de Minaur remain committed to the draw.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar