Alexander Zverev, ranked #1 in the Sofia Open 2023’s main draw, will not participate in the Bulgarian tournament of the ATP 250 series. The German had a great desire to respect the fans in Bulgaria, but he withdrew the request submitted at the last minute by the decision of his coaching team. It was deemed that his efforts were better concentrated on his participation in the ATP Finals in Turin (November 12-19).
Zverev sealed a place in the final top-eight tournament only last night, which is why his schedule underwent a last-minute change.
“As tournament director and on behalf of the many tennis fans, I am extremely disappointed. At the same time, I remain confident that the tournament will maintain its high-quality thanks to the remaining world-class stars. The tournament also remains a great opportunity for the development of Bulgarian players, who will have a chance to face some of the best tennis players in the world,” commented tournament director Orlin Stanoychev.
The leading position in the main draw is held by Lorenzo Musetti. After Zverev’s withdrawal, the last place in the draw goes to his compatriot Maximilian Marterer, who is a former 1/4-finalist at the Sofia Open (2018). The drawing ceremony will take place tonight at 19:30 in the Nova TV studio and will be broadcast live on Diema Sport 3.
