ATP World Tour Finals: Injury forces Milos Raonic out and replaced by David Ferrer

Milos Raonic has been forced to pull out of his final match at the ATP World Tour Finals due to injury.

The Canadian had been due to face Kei Nishikori but picked up a low grade tear to his quad during his loss to Andy Murray on Tuesday night.

Raonic was replaced in the tournament by first reserve David Ferrer of Spain, who lost in three sets to Nishikori on Thursday afternoon.

Live Tennis: ATP World Tour Finals

Raonic said he suffered the leg injury late in the first set during his match against Murray.

He explained: "At first it felt like cramping but, when I got up from a changeover and had to stand, I knew it was something else.

"The doctors said that, if I were to play, I’d be walking a tightrope. That was a factor in my decision. I didn’t want to accept it, but I had to listen to the doctors and my team. It would be unfair to fans if I were to step out there and play a mediocre match all the way through or if things got worse and I had to stop.

"Obviously, I feel pessimistic right now. I had a great time here, it was very different from last year [when he was a reserve]. I really badly wanted to play. The competition here is about facing the best and being on top of your game. I wish I could have competed, but it is what it is."

Right decision

Sky Sports tennis expert Barry Cowan said: "It is really unfortunate Raonic has pulled out but he is looking long term as opposed to short term.

"There is a risk that playing a match could set him back two months and scupper a very important part of the season, when he is looking to improve his game and physicality. He has made the right decision for himself and the tournament."

Watch Andy Murray take on Roger Federer on Sky Sports 3HD from 6pm on Thursday.