EXHAUSTION PREVENTS CARLOS ALCARAZ FROM DEFENDING THE TITLE

Carlos Alcaraz, winner of the 52nd ABN AMRO Open, will not defend his title at the tournament that begins this Saturday. The Australian Open champion concluded that after his exertions over the past two weeks, he needs more time to return to action.

Carlos Alcaraz reached that conclusion the morning after his victory in Melbourne. "After consulting with my team, I had to make the difficult decision to withdraw from the ABN AMRO Open. I need time to recover after the long series in Australia. It's disappointing not to be able to return after winning the title last year. I had a great time in Rotterdam last year and hope to return soon. I wish the fans and the organizers a fantastic week."

Tournament director Richard Krajicek: "The Australian Open was long and tough for Carlos. It is a shame for both him and us that his fantastic result is preventing him from participating in Rotterdam."

Alexander Zverev topseed

With the withdrawal of Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev becomes the new top seed at the ABN AMRO Open. The 28-year-old world number four will face competition from Alex de Minaur, Felix Auger-Aliassime, Alexander Bublik, and Jack Draper, among others. Former winners Daniil Medvedev and Stan Wawrinka are also participating in Rotterdam.

Richard Krajicek: "A key reason for choosing a broad field with many top players is the risk of withdrawals. We are convinced that with the players present, we will have a fantastic week of tennis."

Alcaraz's place will be taken by Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, the first reserve on the entry list.