The Kazakh, currently at a career-high ranking of No. 10, is into his seventh semifinal in the last eight months.

A statement released by the tournament on Monday said that Alcaraz "concluded that after his exertions over the past two weeks, he needs more time to return to action."

February is the season of small victories. Lots of them. Sometimes, though, they can be building blocks.

With a 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 triumph over Alex de Minaur, Alcaraz is the first Spanish champion in the tournament’s 52-year history.

The Spaniard had been to three semifinals at indoor events previously, but was stopped at that stage every time.