Djokovic pulls out of Abu Dhabi final, succumbs to illness

ABU DHABI - World No. 1 Novak Djokovic did not play the final of the exhibition event in Abu Dhabi on Saturday after succumbing to illness and handing the title to Britain's Andy Murray, the organizers stated on Saturday.

Djokovic brushed aside Stanislas Wawrinka of Switzerland in the semi-finals 6-1, 6-2, while Murray breezed past Spaniard Rafael Nadal 6-2 6-0.

Unfortunately I am not able to play in the final in Abu Dhabi. I've been sick today with a fever and I'm not fit to play. Congratulations to Andy, it's a shame I couldn't play him today but I'm sure we will meet again soon, Djokovic stated.

Photo Tanjug M. Jelesijevich archive