In a surprising turn of events, Alexander Zverev has decided to withdraw from the upcoming ABN AMRO Open in Rotterdam. This announcement was made public via the tournament's social media platforms on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
The 28-year-old German tennis player last participated in this tournament in 2023, where he faced defeat against Tallon Griekspoor in the second round. Throughout his career, Zverev has competed at this event six times.
"It is truly unfortunate for me to have to make this choice. The ABN AMRO Open has always held a special place for me, as it was one of the first tournaments where I received an opportunity as a young athlete, which makes my return here something I always look forward to," Zverev expressed. "Nevertheless, considering my past ankle troubles, I must prioritize my recovery and avoid taking any unnecessary risks. I wish everyone participating in Rotterdam a fantastic week ahead."
Zverev's withdrawal comes as no surprise given his ongoing issues with his ankle. His physiotherapist has recommended that he focus on a thorough recovery before returning to competitive matches. We all hope to see him back in form soon!
Tournament director Richard Krajicek commented on the situation, saying, "Of course, we would have loved to see Alexander back on the court, especially considering his history. However, we respect his decision. The memories of his previous ankle injury are still fresh in everyone's minds, and we understand the importance of his health."
Zverev kicked off his 2026 season at the United Cup before making it to the semi-finals of the Australian Open, where he lost a gripping five-set match to Carlos Alcaraz. To date, he has recorded a 6-2 win-loss record this year, according to the Infosys ATP Win/Loss Index.
The ABN AMRO Open will take place from February 9 to February 16, featuring top players like Alex de Minaur, Felix Auger-Aliassime, and Alexander Bublik among its lineup.
What do you think about Zverev's decision to withdraw? Do you agree with prioritizing health over competition, or do you think he should have played through the pain? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
