Wimbledon leaves injured players rule in place for time being

Wimbledon will not be changing their rules regarding injured players taking to the court, Sky sources understand.

However, they will be monitoring an ATP pilot scheme which offers a lucky loser the spot instead of the injured player.

There was disappointment and anger on Centre Court on Tuesday when both showcase men's singles matches ended before two sets had been played.

World No 4 Novak Djokovic was on court for just 40 minutes against Martin Klizan before the Slovak withdrew at 2-0 down in the second set.

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Roger Federer feels injured players should give up their spot following Wimbledon win

Roger Federer's match against Alexandr Dolgopolov lasted a similar time before the Ukranian retired.

It meant there have been eight retirements at Wimbledon this year, seven of them in the men's singles, compared to none last year.

On each occasion the player who stepped onto the court and then retired pocketed £35,000.

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Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic ease through at Wimbledon

They've earned the right to be out there at Wimbledon, to take that money, to help them for future tournaments, if they're not injured

Sky Sports Mark Petchey has mixed feelings, saying: "I have a lot of sympathy for the fans first and foremost. I also have a lot of sympathy for the players making that decision as well.

"The journey from becoming a junior to a pro is extremely long, hard and arduous.

"It is also hugely expensive and the first round prize money cheque at Wimbledon can virtually pay half of even more of the salary for a coach.

"And it is an uneven playing field anyway against the top players who are making millions. They've got fitness trainers, coaches, everything they need.

"So I personally think they are well within their rights. They've earned the right to be out there at Wimbledon, to take that money, to help them for future tournaments, if they're not injured."

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