Murray withdraws from Djokovic clash in Madrid

Andy Murray has withdrawn ahead of his match against Novak Djokovic in the round of 16 at the Madrid Open on Thursday, citing an illness.

Murray, 34, a three-time major winner, was set to face Djokovic for the 37th time in a highly anticipated clash on clay at the ATP Masters 1000 event in the Spanish capital.

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“Unfortunately, Andy Murray is unable to take to the Manolo Santana Stadium due to illness,” tournament organisers said in a statement on social media.

“Instead, Andrey Rublev and Daniel Evans will open the day’s play on centre court.”

Djokovic advanced to the quarterfinals with a walkover victory. He will face the winner of Hubert Hurkacz vs. Dusan Lajovic.

Murray, who had earlier said he would skip the clay-court season in order to protect his fitness, accepted a late wild card in Madrid and beat Dominic Thiem and Denis Shapovalov in his opening two matches.

Information from Reuters contributed to this report.

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