The 2026 Canadian Open is shaping up to be a tournament defined as much by its absentees as its participants. The withdrawal list has now climbed to eight players across both draws, dealing a significant blow to what is traditionally one of the most exciting combined ATP/WTA 1000 events on the calendar.
Running from August 1 through August 13, the Canadian Open serves as the opening leg of the North American summer swing, with the men competing in Montreal and the women in Toronto. Given that the Cincinnati Open and US Open follow in quick succession, it is no surprise that some players are choosing to protect their bodies ahead of the final Grand Slam of the season.
On the women's side, the latest additions to the absentee list are Karolina Muchova and Jasmine Paolini, both Grand Slam finalists in recent years. Muchova, who reached the Wimbledon final just weeks ago, confirmed on social media that she underwent a small procedure and needs a few weeks away from competition. Paolini, a former French Open and Wimbledon finalist, cited a foot problem as the reason for skipping both Washington and Toronto, noting she needs extra time for the injury to settle.
Those withdrawals compound an already bruising situation for fans. Victoria Mboko, who memorably won the women's title last year on home soil, will not defend her crown after sustaining a serious knee injury at Queen's Club. Emma Raducanu is also absent, managing a stress fracture in her right leg that will keep her out through Cincinnati as well.
On the men's side, Carlos Alcaraz continues his recovery from a wrist injury, remaining the headline absentee from the ATP draw.
TennisDraw users tracking the Canadian Open bracket should factor in these significant seeding shake-ups when making their picks this week.
