Tomas Berdych announces late withdrawal for ASB Classic in Auckland!

will not play the ASB Classic in . The Tournament Director had announced the first Czech players appearance ever in the tournament, being very excited a few months ago, but this week the 32-year-old played five matches at the Qatar Exxon Mobil Open in Doha, which marked his comeback to the competition after a six-month break, and is being tired.

In an interview to Stuff, Budge explained the details behind Berdychs withdrawal: Unfortunately its your week, in the same way, Eugenie Bouchard pulled out of her tournament next week in Australia (Hobart) because she played deep here.

It sucks for the fans and personally, Im gutted. But I also really appreciate Tomas reasoning – he doesnt want to turn up and play a match here if he doesnt think hes ready. My only hope is that he at least remembers us and is able to come back in a future year. , who faced Berdych in Doha final on Saturday, also had a deep run in the Qatari event but Budge feels that the Spaniard, who won 2016 ASB Classic title, will still play.

If theres ever a player that will come its Roberto. He plays incredibly well here, hes always tried to come and get on court. Its awesome that he beat Novak and I know hes got a flight booked so he can leave straight after the final and still make it, concluded Budge.

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