ATP Libema Open: Four Players Withdraw From Event

The grass-court swing on the ATP and WTA Tours begins next week. As always, the Libema Open in ‘s-Hertogenbosch will host a combined men’s and women’s tournament at the start of the grass-court season. 2021 US Open champion Daniil Medvedev and former Wimbledon semifinalist Hubert Hurkacz are among those on the entry list. Four withdrawals, including one of the most exciting young talents in tennis, weakened the lineup.

Four Players Withdraw From ATP Libema Open

Which Players Have Withdrawn?

Arthur Fils was the highest-ranked player to withdraw from the Libema Open. The 20-year-old sustained a stress fracture in his back at the French Open, meaning he could not play in his scheduled third-round contest against four-time US Open quarterfinalist Andrey Rublev. He had suffered with back pain for a while, but it got worse in Paris. Scans then revealed the extent of the issue, and Fils is unsure whether he will be fit for Wimbledon.

Sebastian Korda was the second player to withdraw from the Dutch tournament. Last year’s Citi DC Open champion reached the French Open third round, falling to Frances Tiafoe at that stage. No official reason has been given for the American not playing in S-Hertogenbosch. Korda had elbow surgery in the closing stages of last season, but there is no indication of that being an issue again.

Tallon Griekspoor also withdrew from the Libema Open. He retired from his fourth-round match against Zverev at the French Open due to an abdominal injury. The 28-year-old pulled a muscle before that contest, but tried to compete until the pain became too severe at 4-6 0-3 down.

Miomir Kecmanovic was the other player to elect not to play at the Libema Open. It is currently unknown why he reconsidered competing in the Netherlands. Although the Serbian is least comfortable on grass, he can play great tennis on any surface when playing at his best.

Who Replaced Those Players on the Entry List?

Tomas Martin Etcheverry took Fils’ place at the Libema Open. Wimbledon is the only Grand Slam where the Argentine has yet to reach the third round. The Dytch ATP 250 tournament will give him an opportunity to find momentum on grass. Aleksandar Kovacevic is also on the entry list after Korda’s decision to withdraw. The 26-year-old’s attacking playing style suits grass if he plays well, although he fell in the opening round last year.

Christopher O’Connell benefited from Griekspoor’s decision to withdraw from the Libema Open. The Australian is a solid competitor on any surface and made the Wimbledon third round in 2023. Nicolas Jarry was the final player to join the entry list. Although the Chilean prefers being on clay, his massive serve makes him a dangerous opponent on grass.