Alexander Blockx withdraws from tournament

Alexander Blockx, a 21-year-old Belgian tennis player ranked world number 28, withdrew from the ATP 250 in Brussels on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, due to an ankle injury. He was the fourth seed and was set to begin directly in the quarterfinals but decided to pull out after medical tests indicated a risk of aggravating the injury.

History of injuries for Blockx

This is not the first time Blockx has faced injuries this season. He previously suffered an ankle sprain that forced him to withdraw from his second-round match at Roland-Garros last May. Additionally, he had ligament damage to the same ankle in 2025, which has raised concerns about the long-term health of his playing career.

Blockx’s 2026 season performance

Blockx was hoping to continue his strong 2026 season, which included a semifinal appearance at the Masters 1000 in Madrid and a quarterfinal run at the US Open. These performances had positioned him as a rising star in men’s tennis and had raised expectations for his performance in Brussels.

Replacement for Blockx in the tournament

Blockx’s withdrawal means he will be replaced by his compatriot Gauthier Onclin, who qualified from the draw. Onclin, a fellow Belgian player, will now step into Blockx’s place in the tournament bracket, ensuring the competition continues without disruption.

Blockx’s decision to withdraw

Blockx stated that while his injury is not severe, it was prudent to avoid further complications by withdrawing from the tournament. His decision reflects a cautious approach to managing his health, especially after previous setbacks that have impacted his playing schedule.