The tournament has been upgraded but faces a significant setback, as several top players have withdrawn from the Canadian Open!

Next week, the spotlight in the tennis world will be on the Toronto Masters. However, world number two and newly crowned Wimbledon runner-up Alcaraz announced earlier on social media that he will withdraw from this year's Toronto Masters due to muscle issues arising from consecutive matches, with the North American hard court season expected to begin at the Cincinnati Masters.

As of now, the list of players confirmed to withdraw from the ATP Toronto Masters is growing longer, as follows:

Sinner

Alcaraz

It is quite rare for both the world number one and two to withdraw from a Masters event. Notably, Sinner won his first Masters title by defeating De Minaur at the Canadian Masters. The simultaneous absence of the top two players is reminiscent of the era when the "Big Four" competed together.

This time, both Sinner and Alcaraz are focusing on the US Open, and both are expected to participate in the Cincinnati Masters. Sinner is the defending champion, while Alcaraz reached the finals in the tournament two years ago, making them both formidable competitors.

Djokovic

Djokovic's absence from the Canadian Masters was anticipated, as participating in consecutive tournaments is quite a luxury for a 38-year-old veteran. Historically, he has won multiple titles here, so victory is certainly within reach. Currently, the opportunities for Djokovic to claim another Grand Slam title are dwindling, and he will be very cautious in his approach to conserve energy for his pursuit of a 25th Grand Slam title.

Draper

The British number one exited Wimbledon early due to an unexpected injury. Reports indicate that he has not only withdrawn from the Canadian Masters but has also opted out of the upcoming Cincinnati Masters. Whether he can replicate last year's Grand Slam semifinal achievement remains uncertain.

Hurkacz

After being upset by Djokovic in the Geneva final, the Polish player seems to have lost his momentum, with a disappointing grass season that has been particularly challenging for a serve-oriented player. As the North American autumn events approach, he, having seen his ranking slide, shows no signs of recovery.

Korda

Injuries have also impacted American rising star Korda, who was riding high after winning the Washington 500 event last year. This year, he has struggled with injuries, even missing his title defense at home. With intense competition among the elite American male players, Korda risks losing his seeded position in the Grand Slam tournaments.

Thompson

This player, who won his first tour title last year, has been inconsistent in both form and fitness. While compatriot Poprin managed to pull off an upset by winning a Masters title, Thompson has only achieved early-round results in Grand Slam events.

The withdrawal of numerous top players is undoubtedly a wake-up call for this year's upgraded Canadian Masters. Will the tournament be able to produce a new champion?(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Luo Cheng Qi Ye)