Shanghai Masters 2026: Alex de Minaur Advances To Round Of 32 Without Playing Alex Molcan | Here’s What Happened

Alex de Minaur has received a welcome break at the Shanghai Masters, advancing to the round of 32 without hitting a ball after Alex Molcan withdrew from their scheduled second-round match. The Australian was due to face the Slovakian on Friday, October 9, but Molcan’s withdrawal handed the ninth seed a walkover. The development also gives de Minaur additional time to recover after an injury scare threatened to derail his campaign in Shanghai.

Why Did Alex Molcan Withdraw Against Alex de Minaur?

Molcan’s withdrawal means the second-round clash will not take place. He had entered the match after beating Italian qualifier Federico Cina 4-6, 6-1, 6-2 in the opening round.