Djokovic joins Federer in withdrawing from the Rogers Cup in Montreal

Bad news for the tennis fans in Montreal as they are going to miss not only Roger Federer, but also Novak Djokovic.

The Serbian was engaged in a tough final i Wimbledon against the Swiss after he managed to conquer the match following a battle of attrition that lasted almost 5 hours. That took a toll on Novak’s body, and eventually he announced his withdrawal from the tournament.

Djokovic about not playing the Rogers Cup

Nole released the following statement

“I’m sorry to announce that I decided to pull out of Rogers Cup. With the support of my team, I have decided to give my body longer rest and recovery time before coming back again to play. I love Canada and I have many friends there that always make me feel like I’m at home and I’m looking forward to coming back again to play in front of all of you in Montreal.”

The reply from the Rogers Cup organization

Unfortunately, also Juan Martin Del Potro will be unable to compete in Montreal because of his knee injury occurred at the Queen’s Club.

Eugène Lapierre, the tournament director of the Rogers Cup in Montreal, commented

“We would have loved for Djokovic to have the chance to be crowned champion for a third time in Montreal, but we understand his decision and we wish him a quick return for the rest of the season.

In del Potro’s case, we wish him a speedy recovery, he who has experienced his share of injuries in the past few years. We look forward to seeing him back on court in the near future.”

Djokovic won the Rogers Cup on 4 occasions. Twice in Montreal (2007, 2001) and Toronto (2012, 2016).

Djokovic and Del Potro will be replaced in the main draw by Richard Gasquet and Mikhail Kukushkin.

The world no.1 is still very much expected to compete in Cincinnati ahead of his bid to defend his title at the US Open.