European Open 2026 Draw Preview: Fils Leads Field, Rune Faces Collignon in Brussels
The European Open 2026 singles draw has been revealed, with Arthur Fils taking the No. 1 seed following the withdrawals of defending champion Félix Auger-Aliassime and former World No. 2 Casper Ruud.
The BNP Paribas Fortis European Open returns to Brussels, Belgium, from October 19 to 25, bringing together a competitive field of established ATP Tour players, rising stars, and Belgian favorites.
French star Arthur Fils headlines the 28-player singles draw, while two-time European Open finalist Jiří Lehečka takes the No. 2 seed. Francisco Cerúndolo and home favorite Alexander Blockx complete the top four.
One of the most anticipated first-round matches will feature Holger Rune against Belgium’s Raphaël Collignon, with the winner advancing to face Lehečka.
Meanwhile, David Goffin will begin the final tournament of his professional career against a qualifier or lucky loser, hoping to extend his farewell appearance in front of the Belgian crowd.
With the defending champion absent, the 2026 edition is guaranteed to produce a different singles winner.
Here is our complete European Open 2026 draw preview, including the seeded players, first-round matchups, projected quarterfinals, potential semifinal clashes, and players to watch.
Last updated: October 18, 2026. Based on the official ATP singles main draw released on October 18. Qualifier and lucky-loser positions remain subject to confirmation.
European Open 2026 Tournament Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Tournament | BNP Paribas Fortis European Open |
| Edition | 11th |
| Category | ATP 250 |
| Dates | October 19–25, 2026 |
| Qualifying | October 17–18 |
| Location | Brussels, Belgium |
| Venue | Brussels Expo |
| Surface | Indoor Hard |
| Singles Draw | 28 Players |
| Doubles Draw | 16 Teams |
| Prize Money | €723,435 |
| Defending Singles Champion | Félix Auger-Aliassime (Withdrawn) |
| Tournament Director | Dick Norman |
| Organizer | Tennium |
Brussels Expo will host the tournament’s opening rounds, with the final weekend moving to a specially prepared Centre Court in Palais 5.
European Open 2026 Seeded Players
Following several changes to the original entry list, Arthur Fils enters the tournament as the highest-ranked player in the singles draw.
The top four seeds receive first-round byes and will begin their campaigns in the Round of 16.
Complete Singles Seeds
| Seed | Player | Country | ATP Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arthur Fils | FRA | 11 |
| 2 | Jiří Lehečka | CZE | 16 |
| 3 | Francisco Cerúndolo | ARG | 20 |
| 4 | Alexander Blockx | BEL | 28 |
| 5 | Alex Michelsen | USA | 35 |
| 6 | Zizou Bergs | BEL | 39 |
| 7 | Botic van de Zandschulp | NED | 41 |
| 8 | Mariano Navone | ARG | 47 |
Rankings are those listed on the official ATP draw sheet and used for tournament seeding.
Two Belgian players, Alexander Blockx and Zizou Bergs, are among the eight seeds, providing the home crowd with genuine hopes of a deep run.
Defending Champion Félix Auger-Aliassime Withdraws
The biggest change to the European Open 2026 draw is the absence of Félix Auger-Aliassime.
The Canadian was originally expected to defend the singles title he won in Brussels last year, but a knee injury has forced him to withdraw.
Auger-Aliassime defeated Jiří Lehečka 7–6(2), 6–7(6), 6–2 in the 2025 final to secure his second European Open championship.
He previously won the tournament in 2022, when it was still held in Antwerp.
His withdrawal means that fans will not see a repeat of last year’s final.
Casper Ruud has also withdrawn, removing another leading contender from the tournament.
As a result, Fils and Lehečka occupy the top two positions in the draw.
European Open 2026 Draw Preview: Top Half
The top half of the draw features No. 1 seed Arthur Fils, American Alex Michelsen, and Belgian stars Alexander Blockx, Zizou Bergs, and David Goffin.
It could produce several exciting matches, especially if the Belgian players advance beyond the opening rounds.
Arthur Fils: Top Seed Targets His First European Open Title
Arthur Fils returns to a tournament where he has already enjoyed considerable success.
The Frenchman reached the European Open final in 2023, defeating Stefanos Tsitsipas in the semifinals before falling to Alexander Bublik in the championship match.
Three years later, Fils returns as a much more accomplished player.
The 22-year-old claimed his first ATP Masters 1000 title in Cincinnati this August, defeating Frances Tiafoe in the final.
His powerful forehand, aggressive baseline play, and improved serving make him one of the leading contenders in Brussels.
Fils’ potential route to the final:
| Round | Potential Opponent |
|---|---|
| First Round | Bye |
| Round of 16 | Jaume Munar / Qualifier or Lucky Loser |
| Quarterfinal | Alex Michelsen / David Goffin / Qualifier or Lucky Loser |
| Semifinal | Alexander Blockx / Zizou Bergs / Other Contender |
| Final | Jiří Lehečka / Francisco Cerúndolo / Other Contender |
Fils will open against either Spain’s Jaume Munar or a qualifier/lucky loser.
If he advances, a potential quarterfinal against fifth seed Alex Michelsen could provide his first major test.
An emotional meeting with David Goffin is another possibility if both players reach the last eight.
Further ahead, Fils could face Alexander Blockx or Zizou Bergs in the semifinals.
David Goffin: One Last Dance in Brussels
David Goffin will be one of the most closely watched players at this year’s European Open.
The 35-year-old Belgian, a former World No. 7 and six-time ATP Tour singles champion, has announced that Brussels will be the final tournament of his professional career.
Goffin received a main-draw wildcard and has been placed in the top quarter of the draw.
He will face a qualifier or lucky loser in his opening match.
Should Goffin win, his likely next opponent would be Alex Michelsen, provided the American also wins his first-round match.
A quarterfinal against top seed Arthur Fils is possible, although both players would need to navigate their earlier matches.
For Goffin, the tournament represents an opportunity to say goodbye on his own terms in front of the home crowd.
He will also compete in doubles alongside compatriot Raphaël Collignon after receiving a wildcard.
Alexander Blockx and Zizou Bergs Lead Belgian Challenge
Belgium will have two seeded players in the top half: Alexander Blockx and Zizou Bergs.
Blockx, the fourth seed, receives a first-round bye and will face either Jan-Lennard Struff or Marcos Giron in the Round of 16.
The 21-year-old has enjoyed a breakthrough 2026 season, highlighted by his first Grand Slam quarterfinal appearance at the US Open.
He defeated Francisco Cerúndolo during his run in New York before eventually retiring against Karen Khachanov in the quarterfinals.
Meanwhile, sixth seed Zizou Bergs will begin against British player Toby Samuel.
Bergs arrives with confidence after producing one of the biggest victories of his career at the Shanghai Masters, where he stunned Carlos Alcaraz 7–5, 7–6(4).
A potential Blockx vs. Bergs quarterfinal would guarantee Belgium a semifinalist and create one of the most exciting matches of the week for local fans.
However, both players have obstacles to overcome before that can happen.
Blockx could face the experienced Struff or Giron, while Bergs may have to navigate a second-round encounter with Dino Prižmić or Damir Džumhur.
Top Half Projected Quarterfinals
Based on the seeded positions, the projected quarterfinals are:
- Arthur Fils (1) vs. Alex Michelsen (5)
- Alexander Blockx (4) vs. Zizou Bergs (6)
These are potential meetings based on the draw, not confirmed matches.
European Open 2026 Draw Preview: Bottom Half
The bottom half is led by second seed Jiří Lehečka and third seed Francisco Cerúndolo.
It also features Holger Rune, Raphaël Collignon, Botic van de Zandschulp, and Mariano Navone.
Arguably the most exciting opening-round contest is Rune against Collignon, with a second-round meeting against Lehečka awaiting the winner.
Jiří Lehečka: Can He Finally Win the European Open?
Jiří Lehečka has unfinished business at this tournament.
The Czech player reached the European Open final in both 2024 and 2025 but finished runner-up on each occasion.
In 2024, he lost to Roberto Bautista Agut in Antwerp. A year later, he suffered a three-set defeat against Félix Auger-Aliassime in Brussels.
Now seeded second, Lehečka will hope to make his third consecutive final appearance and finally lift the trophy.
However, his path is far from straightforward.
Lehečka’s potential route to the final:
| Round | Potential Opponent |
|---|---|
| First Round | Bye |
| Round of 16 | Holger Rune / Raphaël Collignon |
| Quarterfinal | Mariano Navone / Tallon Griekspoor / Other Contender |
| Semifinal | Francisco Cerúndolo / Botic van de Zandschulp / Other Contender |
| Final | Arthur Fils / Alexander Blockx / Other Contender |
His first match could be particularly challenging.
Both Holger Rune and Raphaël Collignon are capable of producing dangerous performances, and neither will be an easy opponent.
A successful start could lead to a quarterfinal against eighth seed Mariano Navone or Tallon Griekspoor, followed by a potential semifinal against Francisco Cerúndolo.
Holger Rune vs. Raphaël Collignon: First-Round Highlight
One of the standout matches of the entire opening round will see wildcard Holger Rune face Belgium’s Raphaël Collignon.
Rune, a former World No. 4 and ATP Masters 1000 champion, has been working to rebuild his momentum following an Achilles injury that interrupted his career.
His presence adds another high-profile contender to the bottom half.
However, Collignon should not be underestimated.
The Belgian reached the European Open semifinals in 2025, producing impressive performances before losing to eventual champion Auger-Aliassime.
Backed by the home crowd, Collignon will hope to repeat last year’s run.
Why this match matters:
The winner will advance to face second seed Jiří Lehečka in the Round of 16.
For Rune, it is an opportunity to regain momentum against a quality opponent.
For Collignon, it is a chance to claim a significant victory in front of Belgian supporters.
The matchup promises an interesting contrast between Rune’s aggressive shot-making and Collignon’s confidence in familiar surroundings.
Francisco Cerúndolo Looks to Challenge From the Bottom Half
Third seed Francisco Cerúndolo begins the tournament with a first-round bye.
The Argentine will face either Yannick Hanfmann or a qualifier/lucky loser in his opening match.
Cerúndolo has developed into an established Top 20 player and possesses the power and consistency to challenge strong opponents on different surfaces.
However, the indoor hard courts in Brussels will present a different test from the slower conditions on which he has often enjoyed success.
A potential quarterfinal against Botic van de Zandschulp could be a difficult matchup, while Lehečka may await in the semifinals.
An interesting possibility is a semifinal between Francisco and his younger brother, Juan Manuel Cerúndolo, who has been drawn into the neighboring quarter.
Both would need to produce deep runs to make that happen.
Botic van de Zandschulp and Mariano Navone: Dangerous Outsiders
Botic van de Zandschulp enters as the seventh seed and will begin against a qualifier or lucky loser.
The Dutchman has the experience and powerful baseline game to challenge higher-ranked opponents.
His section also includes Britain’s Jacob Fearnley and France’s Hugo Gaston, who will meet in the opening round.
Meanwhile, eighth seed Mariano Navone faces fellow Argentine Juan Manuel Cerúndolo.
If Navone progresses, his second-round opponent will be Tallon Griekspoor or wildcard Max Schoenhaus.
That could set up a quarterfinal against Lehečka or the winner of Rune vs. Collignon.
Bottom Half Projected Quarterfinals
The projected quarterfinals based on seedings are:
- Francisco Cerúndolo (3) vs. Botic van de Zandschulp (7)
- Jiří Lehečka (2) vs. Mariano Navone (8)
Rune, Collignon, and Griekspoor could all disrupt these seeded matchups.
European Open 2026 First-Round Matches
The official draw has produced several interesting opening-round contests.
The following matchups were listed on the ATP draw released October 18.
| Match | First-Round Matchup |
|---|---|
| 1 | Qualifier / Lucky Loser vs. Jaume Munar |
| 2 | David Goffin (WC) vs. Qualifier / Lucky Loser |
| 3 | Qualifier / Lucky Loser vs. Alex Michelsen (5) |
| 4 | Jan-Lennard Struff vs. Marcos Giron |
| 5 | Dino Prižmić vs. Damir Džumhur |
| 6 | Toby Samuel vs. Zizou Bergs (6) |
| 7 | Botic van de Zandschulp (7) vs. Qualifier / Lucky Loser |
| 8 | Jacob Fearnley vs. Hugo Gaston |
| 9 | Yannick Hanfmann vs. Qualifier / Lucky Loser |
| 10 | Mariano Navone (8) vs. Juan Manuel Cerúndolo |
| 11 | Tallon Griekspoor vs. Max Schoenhaus (WC) |
| 12 | Holger Rune (WC) vs. Raphaël Collignon |
First-round byes: Arthur Fils, Jiří Lehečka, Francisco Cerúndolo, and Alexander Blockx.
The remaining qualifier and lucky-loser positions will be finalized according to the qualifying results and any additional changes.
Five Matches and Potential Clashes to Watch
1. Holger Rune vs. Raphaël Collignon
This is arguably the most intriguing confirmed first-round matchup.
A former Top 5 player faces a Belgian who reached last year’s semifinals, with the winner earning a match against Jiří Lehečka.
2. Alexander Blockx vs. Zizou Bergs – Possible Quarterfinal
An all-Belgian quarterfinal would be a major attraction for the home crowd.
Both players have produced memorable results in 2026 and have the opportunity to make a deep run in Brussels.
3. Arthur Fils vs. David Goffin – Possible Quarterfinal
A meeting between France’s rising star and Belgium’s retiring legend would create a memorable occasion.
Fils would be chasing another ATP title, while Goffin would be trying to extend his final tournament.
4. Jiří Lehečka vs. Holger Rune – Possible Second Round
If Rune defeats Collignon, he will face Lehečka in the Round of 16.
This could become one of the most difficult opening matches for any top-four seed.
5. Arthur Fils vs. Jiří Lehečka – Possible Final
As the top two seeds, Fils and Lehečka are placed in opposite halves of the draw.
A final between them would bring together a recent Masters 1000 champion and a player who has reached the European Open final in each of the past two years.
European Open 2026 Withdrawals and Draw Changes
Several players initially announced for the tournament are absent from the final singles draw.
The most significant withdrawals are Félix Auger-Aliassime and Casper Ruud.
| Player | Status |
|---|---|
| Félix Auger-Aliassime | Withdrawn – knee injury |
| Casper Ruud | Withdrawn |
| Alejandro Davidovich Fokina | Withdrawn from original entry list |
| Quentin Halys | Withdrawn from original entry list |
| Román Andrés Burruchaga | Withdrawn from original entry list |
| Adolfo Daniel Vallejo | Withdrawn from original entry list |
| Kamil Majchrzak | Withdrawn – knee issue listed on ATP draw |
These changes have opened opportunities for alternate players, qualifiers, and lucky losers.
Toby Samuel, Dino Prižmić, Jan-Lennard Struff, Jaume Munar, and Hugo Gaston are among the players appearing in the updated main draw.
The absence of Auger-Aliassime is particularly significant because the Canadian was expected to defend the championship he won last year.
European Open 2026 Predicted Quarterfinals and Semifinals
Based strictly on the seeded positions, the following matches could take place if the leading seeds progress.
Projected Quarterfinals
| Quarter | Projected Match |
|---|---|
| QF 1 | Arthur Fils (1) vs. Alex Michelsen (5) |
| QF 2 | Alexander Blockx (4) vs. Zizou Bergs (6) |
| QF 3 | Francisco Cerúndolo (3) vs. Botic van de Zandschulp (7) |
| QF 4 | Jiří Lehečka (2) vs. Mariano Navone (8) |
Projected Semifinals
| Semifinal | Projected Match |
|---|---|
| SF 1 | Arthur Fils (1) vs. Alexander Blockx (4) |
| SF 2 | Francisco Cerúndolo (3) vs. Jiří Lehečka (2) |
Projected Final
Arthur Fils (1) vs. Jiří Lehečka (2)
These projections illustrate the seeded draw structure, not match predictions or guaranteed outcomes.
Holger Rune, Raphaël Collignon, David Goffin, and several unseeded opponents could all change the picture.
Who Are the Favorites to Win the European Open 2026?
With defending champion Félix Auger-Aliassime absent, several players have a realistic opportunity to lift the trophy.
Arthur Fils – Leading Contender
The top seed has enjoyed the biggest season of his career, including his breakthrough Masters 1000 victory in Cincinnati. His aggressive game and recent achievements make him the leading contender on paper.
Jiří Lehečka – Strong Challenger
After reaching the last two European Open finals, Lehečka knows how to perform at this tournament. His powerful serve and strong indoor hard-court game make him a serious threat.
Alexander Blockx – Home Favorite
The Belgian has enjoyed a breakthrough season and could use the support of the Brussels crowd to inspire another deep run.
Zizou Bergs – Dangerous Dark Horse
Following his outstanding victory over Carlos Alcaraz in Shanghai, Bergs arrives with confidence. His ability to challenge elite opponents makes him one of the most interesting players in the draw.
Holger Rune – Unpredictable Challenger
Although his recent injury history creates uncertainty, Rune has the experience and talent to beat almost anyone in the field if he finds his best form.
European Open 2026 Schedule: Key Dates
The tournament begins with qualifying on October 17 and 18, followed by the main draw from October 19.
| Date | Round |
|---|---|
| October 17–18 | Qualifying |
| October 19–21 | Singles First Round |
| October 21–22 | Singles Round of 16 |
| October 23 | Singles Quarterfinals |
| October 24 | Singles Semifinals |
| October 25 | Singles and Doubles Finals |
The singles final is provisionally scheduled for 4:30 PM local Brussels time on Sunday, October 25.
Match times may change, so fans should always check the latest official order of play.
European Open 2026 Prize Money and Ranking Points
The 2026 European Open offers total prize money of €723,435, with the singles champion receiving €110,055 and 250 ATP ranking points.
| Singles Result | Prize Money | ATP Points |
|---|---|---|
| Winner | €110,055 | 250 |
| Finalist | €64,195 | 165 |
| Semifinalist | €37,735 | 100 |
| Quarterfinalist | €21,865 | 50 |
| Round of 16 | €12,695 | 25 |
| First Round | €7,775 | 0 |
For the complete breakdown, including doubles, qualifying, currency conversions, and comparisons with the previous edition, see our European Open Prize Money guide.
Where to Find the Official European Open 2026 Draw
Fans can follow the latest European Open draw, match schedules, and results through the official tournament and ATP Tour websites.
- Official European Open Singles Draw (PDF)
- European Open Draws and Order of Play
- ATP Tour European Open Overview
- European Open Tournament Program
- Official European Open Website
European Open 2026 Draw FAQs
Who is the top seed at the European Open 2026?
Arthur Fils is the No. 1 seed following the withdrawals of Félix Auger-Aliassime and Casper Ruud.
Is Félix Auger-Aliassime playing the European Open 2026?
No. The defending champion withdrew before the tournament began because of a knee injury.
Who will Arthur Fils play in his first match?
Fils receives a first-round bye and will face either Jaume Munar or a qualifier/lucky loser in the Round of 16.
Who will Holger Rune face in the first round?
Rune will face Belgian player Raphaël Collignon. The winner will advance to play second seed Jiří Lehečka.
Is David Goffin playing the European Open 2026?
Yes. Goffin received a main-draw wildcard and will begin against a qualifier or lucky loser. This will be the final tournament of his professional career.
Which Belgian players are in the main draw?
Alexander Blockx, Zizou Bergs, Raphaël Collignon, and David Goffin are the four Belgian players confirmed in the singles draw.
When is the European Open 2026 final?
The singles final is scheduled for Sunday, October 25, 2026, at Brussels Expo.
Final Thoughts
The European Open 2026 draw promises an exciting week of indoor tennis, despite the withdrawals of defending champion Félix Auger-Aliassime and Casper Ruud.
Arthur Fils enters as the leading contender, hoping to build on his breakthrough Masters 1000 title in Cincinnati and improve on his runner-up finish at the European Open in 2023.
Jiří Lehečka will be determined to finally win the tournament after losing the last two finals, while Holger Rune’s presence adds unpredictability to the bottom half.
For Belgian fans, the tournament also offers several compelling storylines.
Alexander Blockx and Zizou Bergs have opportunities to make deep runs, Raphaël Collignon faces an exciting opening match against Rune, and David Goffin prepares to say goodbye to professional tennis.
With several potential blockbusters ahead, Brussels is set for another memorable edition of the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open.
