Aussie champ Jannik Sinner won't defend Rotterdam title

After winning his second Australian Open over the weekend, World No. 1 Jannik Sinner of Italy has opted for rest rather than defend his title at Rotterdam next week.

"After consulting with my team we had to take the difficult decision to withdraw from the ABN AMRO Open," Sinner said in a statement Monday.

"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."

Sinner, who is slated to participate at the Qatar Open from Feb. 17-22, holds a large lead in the ATP Tour rankings, protecting his status as the world's No. 1 player.

With Sinner out, three-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz of Spain will be Rotterdam's top seed, headlining a lineup that includes past winners Andrey Rublev and Daniil Medvedev of Russia.

Australia's Alex de Minaur, who reached the quarterfinals of this year's Australian Open, is also in the mix at the tournament, which will be held Feb. 3-9.

Along with Sinner, Grigor Dimitrov of Bulgaria has withdrawn to tend to a groin injury. Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut and Czech Jakub Mensik will take their spots in the draw.

--Field Level Media