Ten-time champion Novak Djokovic is through to the Australian Open quarter-finals after Jakub Mensik withdrew from their fourth-round match with injury.
Mensik defeated American Ethan Quinn in straight sets on Saturday to book the meeting with Djokovic, which had been scheduled for Monday night inside Rod Laver Arena.
But about 24 hours before he was due to take the court, Mensik announced he had been forced to call it quits.
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“This is a tough one to write,” the 20-year-old wrote.
“After doing everything we could to keep going, I have to withdraw from the Australian Open due to an abdominal muscle injury that has progressed over the last matches.
“After a long discussions with my team and doctors we decided not to step on court tomorrow.
“Even though I’m disappointed, making the fourth round here for the first time is something I will carry with me for a long time.
“I felt so much energy from the fans and the atmosphere in Melbourne was truly special.
“Thank you to my team for being with me every step, and to everyone sending messages and cheering – it means more than you know.
“Now it’s time to recover properly.”
Djokovic, 38, will be grateful for the day off as the oldest man left in the draw, particularly after twisting his ankle in Saturday night’s win over Botic van de Zandschulp.
He will face Lorenzo Musetti or Taylor Fritz in the quarters.
More to come…
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