James Blake pulls out of Brisbane and the Australian Open due to ‘personal reasons’ – Tennis News
Maria Sharapova’s non-participation in the Brisbane tournament is followed by another blow to the tournament officials and this time it’s none other than former world number four, James Blake. The American tennis professional
has not only pulled out of Brisbane International but he has apologized to the Australian Open officials as well for his unavailability at the first Grand Slam tournament of the year starting from January 16th.
No particular reason was put forth by the American, as stated that he will not participate due to some ‘personal reasons’. Viewers will be deprived to see another thumping character at the court and his withdrawal has opened
up another slot just one week before the Brisbane tournament commences.
The effort that tournament officials out in order to ensure the high class squad is gathered can be seen in this case as they will have to make sure that the replacement for Blake should be world class contestant. It is never
an easy task, for all the arrangements are made by this time and finding some talented superstar with such tight schedules is very difficult these days.
Tournament director of the 2012 the Australian Open, Craig Tiley, was saddened by the fact that one of the most influential players will not be participating in the first Grand Slam tournament of the season. He stated, “Just
got word that James Blake has withdrawn from the AO (Australian Open) and Brisbane. Sorry to hear this and we wish James all the best."
Blake is entering an age of retirement; he is already 32-years-old and tennis professionals usually lost their tempo and power in their 30’s. It will be interesting to see how long the injury prone Blake can last before he
decides to retire from professional tennis circuit. He has stayed out of action for the most parts of 2011 due to an injury.
He was expected to make a comeback with a new season opener in Brisbane but his scheduled comeback is no time soon at the moment. He is fit at the moment but his personal commitments are in the way of his professional tennis.
He will definitely drown few ranks further, as his non-participation will definitely strip him off some important points and other players will take benefit of that opportunity.
Blake is currently ranked number 59 in ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals) world rankings. He was expected to enjoy a rise in the ranking with his comeback in January but his abandonment from major events like Brisbane
and the Australian Open will not help his cause as far as the ranking is concerned.
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