Organisers raise concerns over late pullouts after Sinner, Djokovic skip Montreal event

July 25 : The Canadian Open expressed disappointment over the withdrawals of Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic from next week's tournament in Montreal, saying the recurring absence of top players from ATP 1000 events had become a broader issue for the sport.

Sinner withdrew on Friday to prioritise his health nearly two weeks after retaining his Wimbledon title, while 24-times Grand Slam winner Djokovic continued to manage his workload, leaving the U.S. Open tune-up short of star power.

With Carlos Alcaraz still nursing a wrist injury that has kept him out since April, the August 1-13 tournament will again be without three of the sport's top names after Alcaraz, Sinner and Djokovic also missed last year's edition in Toronto.

"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," said the event's tournament director, Valerie Tetreault.

"We respect their decisions and understand that, with such a demanding schedule, players' health must remain the priority.

"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."

Tetreault added in her statement to the Canadian media that organisers were in discussions with men's governing body the ATP to ensure that the issue would receive "serious consideration" going forward.

"We firmly believe adjustments are needed in the near future to better protect the integrity of our Masters 1000 events while remaining mindful of the realities players face," she said.

The ATP did not