The Barcelona Open has the strongest entry list for an ATP 500 event so far this season. Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz and last year’s Australian Open runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas are just two big names set to feature. However, three players have decided to withdraw from the Barcelona Open. This article lists who have withdrawn and then names their three replacements in the draw.
Three Players Withdraw From Barcelona Open
Which Players Have Withdrawn?
Jiri Lehecka is the first player to withdraw from the Barcelona Open. This is due to back pain that he started to experience during the North American swing last month. The problem got much worse than Lehecka expected, and he said he would have to miss at least some of the clay court season as a result. It is not currently known when he may return to the court.
Emil Ruusuvuori is the second player to withdraw from the Barcelona Open. The Finnish No. 1’s issue is identical to Lehecka’s. Ruusuvuori is also out injured with a back problem, meaning he has not been able to play any events on clay. He said he is hopeful of playing again soon, but no exact date for his return has been given.
Mackenzie McDonald is the final player to withdraw. The American has not played any tournaments since the Australian Open due to injury. The recovery is taking longer than McDonald probably expected, which is particularly frustrating for him after he enjoyed a very strong 2024 season.
Who Replaces Those Three Players In The Draw?
Arthur Cazaux is set to feature at the Barcelona Open due to Lehecka’s decision to withdraw. The Frenchman, who had a shock run to the fourth round of the Australian Open this year, has not played since retiring from his Miami Open qualifying match due to injury. He now has an opportunity to start his clay court season in style.
Pedro Cachin replaces Ruusuvuori at the Barcelona Open. The Argentine has been in terrible form. He has lost his last 12 matches, including every one played in 2024. Last year’s champion in Gstaad has a chance to finally change his fortunes.
Luca Van Assche is the final player to enter the draw.. The talented 19-year-old enjoys playing on clay, and he will hope to show the ability he possesses on the dirt in front of the spectators in Barcelona.
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane – USA TODAY Sports
