Novak Djokovic says Saudi Arabia exhibition match against Rafael Nadal is cancelled
Friday 7 December 2018 12:55, UK
Novak Djokovic says a planned exhibition match in Saudi Arabia between himself and Rafael Nadal has been called off due to the Spaniard's injury.
he world numbers one and two were due to take part in a one-off exhibition contest in Jeddah on December 22.
Nadal and Djokovic committed to the event over a year ago and were under pressure to pull out after Amnesty International condemned the plans following the recent death of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
Live Tennis: ATP World Tour Finals
Speaking at press conference in London, Djokovic said: "Yeah, it's not happening."
When asked if this was due to Nadal's injury, he replied: "Yes."
Nadal withdrew from the ATP World Tour finals after having surgery on his ankle last week, with American John Isner taking his place in the eight-man field in London.
Nadal's absence also ensures Djokovic will finish the season as year-end world No 1.
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