By Chris Oddo | Wednesday February 26, 2019
Defending champion Juan Martin del Potro has pulled out of next week's BNP Paribas Open due to lingering issues with his right knee.
Photo Source: AP
Juan Martin del Potro will miss Indian Wells.
The defending champion has withdrawn from the 2019 BNP Paribas Open due to a lingering right knee injury. Del Potro returned after a four-month absence due to a fractured right patella at last week’s Delray Beach Open, but he struggled at time with his knee and needed more strapping as he progressed through to the quarter-finals.
"After playing Delray Beach we had various consultations with different specialists," Del Potro said on social media. "And we decided that I needed to do a regenerative therapy treatment on my knee. Unfortunately I will have to wait several days before I can get back on the court and train."
“I am truly disappointed that I will not be able to return to the BNP Paribas Open to defend my title,” said Juan Martin del Potro in a statement. “It is one of my favorite tournaments, and I have incredible memories from last year, but my doctors have advised me to rest. I hope to be back on court soon.”
Taro Daniel moves into the main draw as a result of Del Potro’s withdrawal.
Del Potro won the event last year in dramatic fashion, saving three championship points to defeat Roger Federer in the final. The Tower of Tandil became the first player from Argentina to ever win the title and the first from South America to win the trophy in 20 years.
“I fully understand how difficult it can be to deal with injuries, and that coming back from them is not always a straightforward process,” said Tournament Director Tommy Haas. “We wish Juan Martin all the best in his recovery, and hope to see him back at the BNP Paribas Open next year.”