The 2026 edition of the Bitpanda Hamburg Open will see the return of its reigning champion, as Flavio Cobolli is set to take to the courts at Rothenbaum once again. 

The 23-year-old Italian, currently ranked world No. 14, looks back on an outstanding 2025 season in which he claimed two tournament titles, including the biggest success of his career to date in Hamburg. In last year’s final, Cobolli delivered a brilliant performance to defeat the favoured Andrey Rublev in straight sets, thrilling fans with his versatile clay court game. He also lifted the trophy in Bucharest, further underlining his strong form throughout the season. 

Cobolli has already carried that momentum into 2026, securing the ATP 500 title in Acapulco earlier this year. With clay remaining his preferred surface, he heads into Hamburg as a strong contender for another deep run. 

Tournament Director Enric Molina Mur is delighted about the return of the champion: “Flavio played an incredible tournament last year and truly won over the Hamburg crowd with his title run. His return as defending champion is a strong statement about the quality of our event. Given his current form and recent win in Acapulco that boosted his ranking to world No 13, he is definitely one of the players to watch.”  

Cobolli himself is equally excited to return: “Hamburg was a very special moment in my career. Winning the title at Rothenbaum means a lot to me. I felt at home from the very first day, and the atmosphere was incredible. I’m really looking forward to coming back and doing everything I can to defend my title.”  

Alongside the defending champion, several German players have already confirmed their participation. Jan Lennard Struff and rising talent Justin Engel will represent the home nation, while world No. 3 Alexander Zverev is set to compete in his home city and target the title. Strong international competition is also expected, with Canada’s Félix Auger-Aliassime among those returning to Hamburg. 

Fans can also look forward to a special new highlight at this year’s tournament. On Monday, May 18, the first-ever German Tennis Day will take place, with Alexander Zverev expected to enter the competition on that day, joined by fellow German players including Jan Lennard Struff and Justin Engel. 

In the coming weeks and months, further top players will be announced for the Bitpanda Hamburg Open. As one of the leading ATP 500 clay court events worldwide, the historic tournament continues to attract world-class talent.