Photo by IZHAR KHAN / AFP via Getty Images

Big door opens for Alexander Zverev after Carlos Alcaraz’s surprise decision

Originally posted on HITC | By Cameron Greenlees | Last updated Feb 3, 2026 3:04 PM ET

Carlos Alcaraz started the 2026 season by making history at the Australian Open.

The Spaniard became the youngest man in the Open Era to complete the Career Grand Slam at just 22, following his win over Novak Djokovic in Melbourne Park.

Alcaraz broke a record that was previously held by Rafael Nadal, who completed the feat at age 24 back in 2010.

Following his title run, the Spaniard has opted out of next month’s Rotterdam Open, an ATP 500 event that was set to begin on 9 February.

His withdrawal opens up an opportunity for world number four Alexander Zverev, who is now considered one of the favourites to make a deep run in the tournament.

Alexander Zverev gains momentum ahead of Rotterdam Open

Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images for ITF

Having reached the semifinals at Melbourne Park, Zverev is scheduled to compete in Rotterdam.

Alcaraz beat him in five sets, though the 28-year-old German came close to turning it around, coming back from two sets down and serving for the match.

With Alcaraz out, Zverev now heads into Rotterdam as a strong favourite to take the title.

Among the other leading players set to compete are Alex de Minaur and Felix Auger-Aliassime. The Canadian is making his return to the tour following his retirement during the first round in Melbourne.

Zverev won just one ATP event last season, claiming his only title on the clay in Munich.

His most recent hard-court win was at the Paris Masters back in 2024.

Putting the disappointment of the Australian Open near miss in the past, Zverev now has the opportunity to build momentum and secure his 25th career title at the Rotterdam Open.

ATP stars lining up for this year’s Rotterdam Open

It is not just Zverev, Auger-Aliassime, and de Minaur who will be in action. The field features plenty of familiar names.

Stan Wawrinka will be making his final appearance in Rotterdam as part of his farewell tour, while Jack Draper is also set to return after a lengthy spell out since the 2025 US Open.

Daniil Medvedev will be there too. The Russian will look to bounce back after a fourth-round exit at the Australian Open.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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