As was expected, world no. 1 Jannik Sinner withdrew from this week’s ATP 500 event in Rotterdam. The Italian will drop 500 ATP points after winning the event a year ago, which is not a reason for concern following his Australian Open title seven days ago.
World no. 3 Carlos Alcaraz will lead the draw in Rotterdam, seeking his first indoor ATP title. Speaking about Jannik’s withdrawal, Carlos highlighted how tough it is to preserve the body following a deep run at Majors, especially after winning the title.
Thus, the Spaniard lebeled the Italian’s decision as a smart one. Sinner and Alcaraz could meet for the first time since last October at the upcoming ATP 500 event in Doha.
💥 @carlosalcaraz practice in Rotterdam!
Getting ready for the week 💪@abnamroopen pic.twitter.com/jcAfaB6giD
— ATP Tour (@atptour) February 2, 2025
Jannik did not want to risk anything a week after defending the Australian Open title. He changed his last year’s schedule and withdrew from Rotterdam, recharging batteries ahead of his Doha debut. Sinner enjoyed a stellar run in 2024.
The 23-year-old lifted eight ATP titles and defended the Davis Cup crown for Italy. Jannik left Alexander Zverev and Carlos Alcaraz far behind and maintained that pace at the beginning of 2025. The Italian dropped two sets in seven matches in Melbourne.
Jannik Sinner, Australian Open 2025© Stream screenshot
World no. 1 ousted Ben Shelton in the semi-final and faced Zverev in the title clash. Jannik ousted Alexander 6-3, 7-6, 6-3 to become the three-time Major winner at 23. The Italian faced no break points and challenged his rival to follow that pace.
Seeking his first Major title, Zverev gave everything to extend his chances. The German saved eight of ten break points and missed his chances in the second set. Jannik clinched two breaks in sets one and three to move over the top and defend the title.
Jannik Sinner, Rotterdam 2024© Stream screenshot
The Italian will take a couple of weeks off the court before returning at the strong ATP 500 tournament in Doha.
“I understand why Jannik withdrew from Rotterdam. It’s challenging to stay healthy after a deep run at a Major, especially if you go all the way. Jannik probably did not feel ready to play another tournament so soon after winning the Australian Open, which is a smart decision,” Carlos Alcaraz said.
Tennis World USA