MADRID: Novak Djokovic has been given an extra day of rest at the Madrid Open after the withdrawal of Marin Cilic from the tournament.
The world No.1 was set to lock horns with the Croat in a match that was due to take place at the Caja Magica on Friday. However, Cilic has been struck down with a case of food poisoning following his win over Laslo Djere. This week was only the second time this year Cilic has managed to win three matches in a row and the first since the Australian Open.
“I am sorry to announce that I must withdraw from today’s match. I have had a terrible night dealing with a case of food poisoning. I am extremely disappointed to have my time in Madrid end in this way. Thank you for the support.” Cilic said in a statement.
Djokovic will take on either Roger Federer, who is playing in his first clay tournament since 2016 or Dominic Thiem in the semi-finals. The Serbian is bidding to win his third Madrid title and 14th overall on the clay. It is the 62nd time he has reached the semi-finals of a Masters 1000 event.
In the other section of the draw, Rafael Nadal will play Switzerland’s Stan Wawrinka in a late-night clash. Meanwhile, a battle of the rising stars will take place between defending champion Alexander Zverev and Stefanos Tsitsipas.
Djokovic’s Madrid run so far
R1: BYE
R2: Def Taylor Fritz 6-4, 6-2
R3: Def Jeremy Chardy 6-1, 7-6(2)
QF: Def Cilic via walkover