Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, and Novak Djokovic will all miss the National Bank Open in Montreal, marking the second year the men’s side’s three biggest names have skipped the National Bank Open in Montreal, according to tournament confirmations released Friday. Tennis Canada confirmed the withdrawals just one week before the tournament’s August 1 start date, leaving the event without its top draws and prompting renewed criticism from tournament organizers regarding the sport’s demanding schedule.
National Bank Open Withdrawals Deplete Montreal Field
The absence of Sinner, Alcaraz, and Djokovic reshapes the top of the draw in Montreal. According to tournament seedings, Alexander Zverev, Félix Auger-Aliassime, and Ben Shelton now stand to be the top three seeds, with the Canadian Auger-Aliassime stepping into the role of local favorite. Alcaraz was already known to be out due to the wrist injury that has sidelined him since the clay season.
For Sinner, the decision brings an end to an unprecedented bid. Having won the first five Masters 1000 titles of the year, the Italian star would have had three more tournaments to secure a rare Masters 1000 sweep. Sinner has played only one tournament—his successful Wimbledon title defense—since crashing out of Roland-Garros in May due to severe cramps.
“After carefully considering all the factors together with my team, we have made the difficult decision to withdraw from Montreal,” Sinner said in a statement. “It is never easy to miss such an important event, but we believe this is the right decision to prioritize my health. I’m disappointed not to be there, but I look forward to returning to Montreal in the future.”
Tournament Director Calls for ATP Schedule Adjustments
Djokovic’s absence follows a similarly selective scheduling pattern. At 38 years old, the Serbian star has competed in just five tournaments this year—the Australian Open, Indian Wells, Rome, Roland-Garros, and Wimbledon—utilizing tour exemptions granted for his experience on tour.
National Bank Open tournament director Valerie Tetreault expressed frustration over the repeat withdrawals in a statement provided to The Canadian Press, pointing to a wider systemic issue for the ATP Tour.
“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,” Tetreault said. “We respect their decisions and understand that, with such a demanding schedule, players’ health must remain the priority.”
Tetreault added that Tennis Canada is actively in discussions with the ATP to address the situation. “That said, we believe the frequency of these last-minute withdrawals in the last few years raises a broader issue for our sport. Masters 1000 events are among the flagship tournaments on the tour, and fans rightfully expect to see the world’s best compete,” she noted, emphasizing the need for adjustments to protect tournament integrity while accounting for player welfare.
The Stiff Competition of the Summer Tennis Calendar
The scheduling crunch facing Montreal highlights a structural challenge for the ATP Tour. The Canada Masters events alternate annually between Montreal and Toronto for men and women, placing them in a congested window just weeks after Wimbledon. The tournament serves as the opening leg of a grueling six-week stretch that also includes the Cincinnati Masters and the US Open.
Similar concerns were raised last year by Tetreault’s predecessor, Karl Hale, when the same trio skipped the tournament in Toronto. While the calendar pressures persist, tournament officials continue to plan for future editions, with previous commitments pointing toward the return of top stars in upcoming cycles.
Did you know?
The Canada Masters alternates its men’s and women’s tournaments each year between Montreal and Toronto. This year’s men’s event in Montreal immediately follows the conclusion of the grass-court major at Wimbledon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic missing the National Bank Open?
Both players withdrew to prioritize their health amid a demanding tennis schedule. Sinner cited team consultations and health priorities, while Djokovic has limited his 2024 appearances to major events and select tournaments due to his experience on tour.
Who are the top seeds in Montreal following the withdrawals?
With Sinner, Alcaraz, and Djokovic out, Alexander Zverev, Félix Auger-Aliassime, and Ben Shelton are positioned as the top three seeds for the tournament.
What has tournament leadership said about the absences?
Tournament director Valerie Tetreault stated that Tennis Canada is in discussions with the ATP to address the frequency of last-minute withdrawals and protect the integrity of Masters 1000 events.
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