Alexander Zverev has withdrawn from the singles draw of the ABN AMRO Open in Rotterdam because of recurring ankle problems. The 28-year-old German, who reached the Australian Open semi-finals earlier this year, prioritised recovery on advice from his physiotherapist. Despite the singles pullout, Zverev remains entered in the doubles draw partnering Karen Khachanov.
Alexander Zverev's decision to skip the singles at the ABN AMRO Open comes after a strong start to the 2026 season. He began with the United Cup and advanced to the semi-finals at the Australian Open, where he lost a five-set match to Carlos Alcaraz despite recovering from two sets down. Zverev holds a 6-2 record this year per the Infosys ATP Win/Loss Index.
The withdrawal was announced on Wednesday via the tournament's social media. Zverev, who has played in Rotterdam six times before, last appeared there in 2023, falling to Tallon Griekspoor in the second round. "I find it incredibly unfortunate that I have to make this decision," Zverev said. "At the ABN AMRO Open, I was already given a chance as a young player, and that's why I always enjoy returning. However, given my history with my ankle, I have to prioritise my recovery and can't take any risks. I wish everyone in Rotterdam a wonderful week."
Tournament director Richard Krajicek expressed understanding: "Given his history, we would naturally have liked to see Alexander back on court, but we also understand his decision here. Everyone still remembers the images and the impact of his previous ankle injury."
Although Zverev has withdrawn from singles, he is set to compete in doubles with Karen Khachanov, the world number 18 and a two-time Grand Slam semi-finalist. This marks their first doubles partnership, though they have met nine times in singles, including the Tokyo Olympic final. Zverev has ATP doubles titles with his brother Mischa, while Khachanov won the 2023 Madrid Open doubles with Andrey Rublev.
The ABN AMRO Open runs from February 9 to 16, featuring top players like Alex de Minaur, Felix Auger-Aliassime and Alexander Bublik in the singles field. Other notable doubles entries include Alexander Bublik with Hubert Hurkacz.
