Sebastian Ofner was set to appear in the main draw of the Erste Bank Open, which offers €2,736,875 in prize money, thanks to a wild card. However, problems with his right wrist and both heels have forced the 29-year-old to withdraw from his home tournament in Vienna.

“Since returning to the tennis court, I unfortunately haven’t been completely pain-free. Lately, the discomfort has become more severe. Of course, I would have loved to play in Vienna, but given my physical condition, I have to withdraw from one of the biggest highlights of my season,” said Ofner, who will now undergo further medical examinations on his wrist and heels.

“It’s a pity that Sebastian can’t take part in Vienna, especially after his strong performances in the first half of the season despite his physical problems,” said Erste Bank Open tournament director and Ofner’s manager Herwig Straka. “But the top priority now is for him to fully recover and be able to play pain-free again.”

Straka also confirmed that the now vacant main draw wild card has been awarded to Jurij Rodionov.

The Davis Cup hero from Debrecen, who helped Austria to a 3–2 victory over Hungary in September and secured qualification for the Final 8 in Bologna this November, will be making his third main draw appearance at the Erste Bank Open after 2020 and 2022.

“Jurij performed exceptionally well at the Davis Cup. If he can bring that same form to Vienna, he’s definitely capable of another strong showing here,” added Straka.