MADRID: Japan’s Kei Nishikori has been forced to withdraw from his quarter-final showdown against Novak Djokovic at the Madrid Open due to an ongoing wrist injury.
The world No.8 has been troubled by inflammation in his right wrist within recent weeks. The issue also forced him to withdraw from the Barcelona Open, an event leading up to the Masters 1000 event in Madrid.
“I don’t think it is still hundred percent.” Nishikori said about his wrist. “I don’t want to risk it too much today. I have next week and the French (Open) to (play).”
“I have to get back to hundred percent and I want to fight again in every match and I think today I wouldn’t have been able to play hundred percent.”
Earlier this week there was uncertainty surrounding his participation in Spain. Speaking with the media, the former US Open finalist said he, ‘didn’t want to risk too much‘ concerning the problem.
As a result of his withdrawal, doubts have been cast over Nishikori’s attendance in next week’s Rome Open, another Masters event. He is set to rest over the next few days ahead of Italy with the hope that he will be fit enough.
“I will take a couple days off and I plan to play Rome, but we see.” He said. “I cannot promise to play or pull out right now.”
“I feel a chance. I just need a couple days to rest and recover well. The French (Open) is more important and we will see over the next couple days.”
The wrist is the latest of a series of injuries to trouble the 27-year-old. In the past Nishikori has had to nurse issues to do with his hip, rib and knee. Facing another setback, he continues to be upbeat about the near future.
“It’s getting better and better. I try to be positive. I will try to put in all effort to play next week.” He stated.
Nishikori’s withdrawal has elevated Djokovic into the last four of the event. The Serbian is bidding to successfully defend his title and win his third overall title at the Caja Magica. In the semifinals he will play either David Goffin or Rafael Nadal.
