“I’m still not able to play,” Former World No.5 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga withdraws from Australian Open 2021

“I’m still not able to play,” Former World No.5 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga withdraws from Australian Open 2021

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga is one of the greatest to set foot on the tennis court from the European country of France. The 35-year-old has claimed an astounding 18 ATP singles’ titles. However, Tsonga underwent a knee surgery in 2018. This significantly halted his career as a tennis pro and the former World No.5 has been on the sidelines since. 

Currently ranked at No.62, the Frenchman has been looking to regain his dominance on the ATP Tour. Jo competed only at the Qatar Open and the Australian Open in 2020. He suffered a first-round defeat in both the tournaments. 

Further, Tsonga has now withdrawn from the upcoming edition of Australian Open, which is scheduled to begin from 8 February, 2021.

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“I have to be patient”- Tsonga

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga

The Frenchman took to Twitter to confirm of his withdrawal from the maiden Grand Slam event of the year. 

Tsonga stated, “Despite great progress in recent months, I am still not able to play in competition. In agreement with the medical team, the Australian Open is therefore compromised this year.”

“I am looking forward to getting back on a tennis court, but I have to be patient. Even if not going to Australia this year is a heartbreaker,” he added. 

Moreover, the 35-year-old expressed his gratitude towards the toil of Tennis Australia and the ATP for “keeping tennis alive in these challenging times.” 

Furthermore, he ended the message on a positive note as Tsonga declared, “see you soon on court!”

Also Read: Australian Open 2021: Top-seeds for the Men’s and Women’s singles category announced!