Thursday 1 January 2015 16:54, UK
Juan Martin del Potro has been forced to delay his return from a wrist injury after pulling out of the Brisbane International.
The Argentinian has been sidelined since February when he retired from his opening contest in Dubai and he eventually had surgery on his wrist early last summer.
But Del Potro hopes to be back in action for the defence of his Sydney International title, that event starting on January 12.
"I won't surrender and I work every day to overcome each stone that appears in my path and so be able to play without niggles and enjoy competing again," del Potro said.
"Last year I played some of my best tennis there and it is the perfect way to start the year. I am looking forward to being back in Sydney as it is one of my favourite cities to play.
"I remember there were a lot of Argentine fans who came out to support me which was amazing."
is is the second high-profile withdrawal from one of the year's opening week events, with US Open champion Marin Cilic having pulled out earlier this week with a shoulder problem.
Del Potro's absence means a chance in the main draw for Sam Groth, ranked No 81 in the world, and Groth becomes the seventh home player to be included in the tournament.
Australia's John Millman and James Duckworth - both winners on the Challenger Tour in 2014 - were handed the final two wildcards.
"I'm extremely excited to play the Brisbane International, which is a pretty special tournament to me, being my home event," said Millman, who climbed from 1193 in the world to 156 last year after shoulder surgery.
"I'm very grateful for the opportunity I've been given and the faith that's been shown in me after coming back from a pretty serious injury."
