Beijing, Sep 29 (IANS) World No.1 and defending champion Novak Djokovic has pulled out of the China Open tennis tournament in the wake of a negative report from his latest physical check, organisers confirmed Thursday.
The 24-year-old Serb enjoyed a glorious season, having won 10 ATP events including three of the four Grand Slams. However, his health underwent slow damage due to unceasing tour around the world.
Djokovic rushed to the Davis Cup competition after his victory at the US Open earlier this month, only to swallow a second-set retreat after re-injuring his back and rib during a match against Argentine big server Juan Martin Del Potro. Serbia lost the chance to defend the Davis Cup after Djokovic’s withdrawal, Xinhua reported.
Just four days ago, Djokovic, a two-time winner in Beijing, expressed his wish to play for the third time in the Chinese capital, but finally changed his mind following doctor’s advice.
According to the official website of the China Open, Djokovic was in close contact with the organisers last week, paying special attention to the China tour and looking forward to activities with local tennis star Li Na.
With the season nearing its end, a bunch of players have deleted the China trip from their schedule, including Richard Gasquet, Robin Soderling and Venus Williams. Swiss legend Roger Federer has also decided to skip the Shanghai Masters, which will open in two weeks time.
