After the first Grand Slam, the ABN AMRO Open, the first ATP 500 event of the 2025 season is set to begin in Rotterdam. The draws will be held on January 31st. This tour will feature top 10 stars, including top seed Carlos Alcaraz, 2023 title holder Daniil Medvedev, world no. 8 Alex de Minaur, 2021 champion Andrey Rublev, Holger Rune, and home favorite Tallon Griekspoor. The list doesn’t end here, and there’s a twist as well. Here’s what you need to know about the stars who will make this tournament interesting, fighting their way to glory.

The expectation from the ATP 500 Rotterdam 2025 continues to grow as the organizers extended a last-minute wildcard (A+) to Stefanos Tsitsipas. Tsitsipas will now join Carlos Alcaraz in a lineup to bring the limelight to the tournament, as some stars withdrew from the draws. Stefanos met an early exit in the Australian Open, losing in the first round. It seems to be his opportunity for some redemption.

The 26-year-old star’s entry into the Rotterdam Open has significantly raised expectations for the event. The Greek star is known for his aggressive playing style and he will undoubtedly draw the attention of the audience. Stefanos’ late entry brings another top player into the spotlight, making it one of the most exciting tournaments on the ATP calendar this year. Fans are eager to see how Tsitsipas will perform in this highly competitive field.

Meanwhile, Carlos Alcaraz is preparing for a crucial season. Despite his struggles at the Australian Open, the former World No. 1 is determined to rewrite his story. The Spaniard has been working actively to improve his game by making adjustments in his serve to increase unpredictability and power. He has also switched to a slightly heavier racket to maximize his strength from the baseline. These changes have made Alcaraz one of the most exciting players to watch.

The Rotterdam tournament director Richard Krajicek revealed that Alcaraz’s participation caused a rise in ticket sales. Known for his dynamic play, the four-time Grand Slam champion has become the fans’ favorite. After competing in the Australian Open, Alcaraz will leave the South American clay tournaments to focus on hardcourt events in Rotterdam and Doha. With Tsitsipas joining forces with Alcaraz, alongside other top players, the Rotterdam ATP 500 promises to deliver world-class tennis.

Jannik Sinner Withdrawal From ATP 500 Rotterdam, an advantage to Carlos Alcaraz

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner will not defend his title at the ATP 500 Rotterdam. The Italian star announced his withdrawal just a day after winning the Australian Open 2025. In the finals, he defeated Alexander Zverev to win his second Melbourne title. Sinner had an exhausting run at the year’s first Grand Slam, emphasizing the need for recovery before returning to action.

“After consulting with my team, we had to take the difficult decision to withdraw from the ABN AMRO Open,” Sinner said in his official statement. “My body needs time to rest after the long run in Australia. I have great memories from winning the title in front of amazing crowds at Rotterdam Ahoy last year and hope to be back there soon. I wish Richard [Krajicek] and the whole team a great event.”

Despite his absence, Sinner’s lead in the ATP rankings remains unchallenged. His next appearance is scheduled for the ATP 250 Qatar ExxonMobil Open in mid-February.

With Sinner out and  Grigor Dimitrov also withdrawn due to a groin injury, Carlos Alcaraz steps in as the top seed in Rotterdam. The Spanish star will join other strong competitors like Daniil Medvedev, Andrey Rublev, and Alex de Minaur on this thrilling tour.