ZCZC
BSP-01
TENNIS-AUS-ATP-WTA
Djokovic pulls out of Adelaide International
ADELAIDE, Australia, Jan 11, 2020 (BSS/AFP) – Novak Djokovic on Saturday
pulled out of the upcoming Adelaide International in a big blow to the new
tournament.
The world number two has been leading Serbia at the ATP Cup team event in
Sydney, where they face Russia in a semi-final on Saturday.
No explanation was given by officials who confirmed his absence from the
ATP-WTA tournament, whose women’s field is headed by top-ranked Ashleigh
Barty.
“We know how disappointed Novak is about not being able to play in Adelaide
this year and we hope to welcome him to the tournament next year,” tournament
director Alistair MacDonald said.
“We understand his decision and wish him the very best of luck for the
remainder of the ATP Cup and the upcoming Australian Open.”
Djokovic had planned to use the hardcourt tournament in South Australia,
starting Sunday, as a final tune-up for the Australian Open Grand Slam, which
begins a week from Monday.
BSS/AFP/SSS/0905 hrs