Sep 10, 2023; Flushing, NY, USA; Novak Djokovic of Serbia hits a forehand against Daniil Medvedev (not pictured) in the men's singles final in the men's singles final on day fourteen of the 2023 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports
The Miami Open, the second Masters 1000 event of the ATP season, boasts an impressive lineup with notable names like Indian Wells finalists Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev. However, the tournament has seen three players pull out, prompting replacements to step in.
Novak Djokovic, the world No. 1, has opted out of the Miami Open following a surprising defeat at Indian Wells to Luca Nardi. Djokovic cited a need to balance his personal and professional commitments at this stage of his career.
Aslan Karatsev, sidelined since the Brisbane International due to a knee injury requiring surgery, has withdrawn as well. His return date to the ATP Tour remains uncertain.VAR Drama: West Ham Held to Draw by Aston Villa Despite Late Disallowed Winner
Mackenzie McDonald, absent from professional tennis since the Australian Open, has also withdrawn, although the reason for his continued absence is unspecified.
A Tough Test for Reading in the Barclays Women’s Championship
Filling in for these players are Soonwoo Kwon, who benefits from Djokovic’s absence, Luciano Darderi stepping in for Karatsev, and Marton Fucsovics taking McDonald’s spot. Kwon, currently utilizing a protected ranking, seeks to regain form after a hiatus, while Darderi, fresh from his first ATP title in Cordoba, makes his hard court debut since the Australian Open. Fucsovics, known for upsetting top players, aims to replicate his success at the Miami Open.
