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Organizers lament top players' withdrawals from Canadian Open, cite broader sport issue

From CNA · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Organizers of the Canadian Open expressed disappointment over the late withdrawals of top players Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic.
  • The tournament director cited a broader issue in tennis where frequent last-minute pullouts from Masters 1000 events negatively impact the sport.
  • Organizers are discussing with the ATP to address the demanding schedule and protect the integrity of major tournaments.

The Canadian Open is facing significant player withdrawals for the second consecutive year, leading organizers to voice concerns about the impact on the sport. Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic have both pulled out of the upcoming Montreal event, citing health and workload management respectively. This follows Carlos Alcaraz's absence due to injury, meaning three of the sport's top names will miss the U.S. Open tune-up.

We are obviously very disappointed that Jannik and Novak won't be joining us in Montreal this year, especially after they also withdrew from last year's tournament in Toronto.

— Valerie TetreaultThe event's tournament director expressed disappointment over the withdrawals.

Valerie Tetreault, the tournament director, stated that while player health is a priority, the recurring nature of these late withdrawals from Masters 1000 events presents a broader problem. She emphasized that these tournaments are flagship events and fans expect to see the best players compete.

We respect their decisions and understand that, with such a demanding schedule, players' health must remain the priority.

— Valerie TetreaultThe event's tournament director acknowledged player health concerns.

Organizers are reportedly in talks with the ATP to address the issue, with Tetreault calling for "serious consideration" and "adjustments" to better protect the integrity of Masters 1000 events while acknowledging player realities. The ATP has not yet responded to requests for comment.

That said, we believe the frequency of these last-minute withdrawals in the last few years raises a broader issue for our sport.

— Valerie TetreaultThe event's tournament director highlighted the recurring problem of late withdrawals.

The situation also highlights ongoing criticism of tennis's demanding 11-month season. Sinner's withdrawal is particularly notable as he had the opportunity to win all nine ATP 1000 titles in a single season. Other players, like Alexander Zverev, have also criticized the extended tournament formats. Concerns about player availability and the packed schedule have been a recurring theme in tennis, with past issues arising from extreme heat and humidity during certain parts of the season.

Masters 1000 events are among the flagship tournaments on the tour, and fans rightfully expect to see the world's best compete.

— Valerie TetreaultThe event's tournament director emphasized the importance of top players participating in major events.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by CNA in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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