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Novak Djokovic pulls out of Western and Southern Open

Things have not gone smoothly since Novak Djokovic completed his career Grand Slam and he wants to take time to rest an injury.
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World number one Novak Djokovic has pulled out of the Western and Southern Open due to a recurring left wrist injury.

Djokovic was left in tears after suffering a shock defeat to Juan Martin del Potro in the first round of the men's singles at Rio 2016.

The Serbian alluded to health issues following his third-round exit at the hands of Sam Querrey at Wimbledon in July, but picked up a record 30th ATP 1000 title at the Rogers Cup later that month.

A five-time beaten finalist in Cincinnati, Djokovic wants to take time to rest ahead of a busy close to the year with the US Open and ATP World Tour Finals still to come.

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"I am very sad to announce that I won't be able to play this year in Cincinnati at the Western and Southern Open," said Djokovic in a statement.

"I have a recurring injury that has taken its toll on my body due to a very busy and active schedule this year.

"I have played many matches and I have to take some rest in order to heal. I always have my hopes high on returning to Cincinnati and winning the only trophy I am missing in the Masters series."

Tournament director Andre Silva added: "It's unfortunate for Novak that he has suffered this injury and we wish him all the best with the recovery.

"While we will certainly miss Novak, I think the Western and Southern Open will present great opportunities to a number of players who are looking to break through at one of the biggest events during the ATP season.

"It will also be a tremendous opportunity for our fans to get to see this next generation of stars up close."

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