National Bank Open 2025: Withdrawals Reshape Toronto Seeds as Big Names Exit

The 2025 National Bank Open in Toronto, a key stop on the summer hard-court swing and a vital tune-up for the US Open, has revealed its men’s seeds—and it’s a very different field than organizers originally imagined.

With play set to begin August 2 at Sobeys Stadium, fans in Toronto were hoping for a loaded field.

But in the span of just a few days, several top names pulled out: World No. 1 Jannik Sinner, No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz, 24-time major champion Novak Djokovic, and rising Brit Jack Draper, to name just a few.

And just like that, the draw opened wide.

What Happened?

Jannik Sinner was supposed to headline. But after a deep Wimbledon run, the world No. 1 is dealing with a sore elbow and is taking a break to regroup before Cincinnati and the US Open. It’s the smart move, but a tough loss for Toronto, which hasn’t seen a world No. 1 play the event since Rafael Nadal’s prime.

Carlos Alcaraz, meanwhile, cited fatigue. After another high-octane grass-court swing, the 21-year-old is pacing himself, eyeing bigger targets later this summer. His absence leaves a hole near the top of the draw—but with zero points to defend, it’s a no-brainer to give Toronto a pass.

Novak Djokovic is out with a groin injury suffered at Wimbledon. The Serbian star, now 38, has become increasingly selective in his schedule and hasn’t played here since 2018. He’s a four-time champion in Toronto, but this year, recovery takes priority.

Jack Draper, who’s quietly climbed into the Top 10 with some serious firepower, will also miss the tournament due to a forearm issue. A tough break for the lefty, who looked poised to do damage on North American hard courts.

Also withdrawing: Sebastian Korda, Hubert Hurkacz, and Jordan Thompson—three dangerous floaters who could’ve made noise in this field.

A Brutal Day for the National Bank Open Draw

Fans online were quick to react, calling July 22nd a “brutal day of withdrawals.” And they’re not wrong. What was shaping up to be a blockbuster event suddenly looks a lot more unpredictable—and wide open.

But that doesn’t mean the National Bank Open is lacking talent.

Meet the New National Bank Open Top 8 Seeds

Zverev is now the National Bank Open favorite. But don’t sleep on the Americans—Fritz, Shelton, and Tiafoe all thrive on North American hard courts.

And Musetti, with his improved serve and shot selection, could translate his Wimbledon success onto quicker surfaces. Rublev and Rune bring firepower from the baseline.

Ruud has looked increasingly comfortable on hard courts and could quietly string together a few wins.

What’s Next for the National Bank Open?

Yes, losing Sinner, Alcaraz, and Djokovic stings. But the National Bank Open is still a Masters 1000 with 1000 ranking points on the line—and for guys like Zverev or Fritz, it’s a massive opportunity to grab a title while the giants are healing.

Expect a few surprises from wild cards and qualifiers. Toronto has a way of producing breakthrough moments—just ask 2024 National Bank Open champ Alexei Popyrin about that one.

Tournament director Karl Hale summed it up best:

“We’re disappointed not to have Jannik, Carlos, or Novak. But this opens the door for incredible competition and new stars to shine.”

Main draw action begins next week. Tickets are still available, and Friday’s full draw reveal should give us even more storylines to watch.

Stay tuned. This one’s wide open—and wide open often means chaos. In the best way.