Lorenzo Musetti will miss the February Golden Swing in South America after suffering a groin injury in his Australian Open quarterfinal match against Novak Djokovic. The Italian withdrew from the upcoming ATP 250 Buenos Aires and ATP 500 in Rio de Janeiro, both on clay.
“After the results of my medical examinations and tests, my team and I have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the upcoming tournaments in Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro,” Musetti said in a post on social media. “My focus right now is on my rehabilitation so I can return to the court. Thank you to everyone for their support and hope to see you soon.”
The world No. 5 led Djokovic two sets to love before being forced to retire.
A jam-packed schedule next week features Buenos Aires, Dallas, and Rotterdam. Although the Rotterdam field is still stacked, it will be without Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev. They withdrew from the ATP 500 indoor event earlier this week. Alcaraz understandably wants a break after completing the career Grand Slam with his first Aussie Open title, while Zverev cited an ankle issue.
“I find it incredibly unfortunate that I have to make this decision,” the fourth-ranked German lamented. “At the ABN AMRO Open, I was already given a chance as a young player, and that’s why I always enjoy returning. However, given my history with my ankle, I have to prioritize my recovery and can’t take any risks. I wish everyone in Rotterdam a wonderful week.”
The Rotterdam field currently includes Alex de Minaur, Felix Auger-Aliassime, Alexander Bublik, Daniil Medvedev, Arthur Fils, Karen Khachanov, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Hubert Hurkacz.
too many injuries so early in the season