BANGALORE, Sept 11 (AFP): Hosts India hope world number one Novak Djokovic's absence will help them upset former champions Serbia in the Davis Cup World Group play-off tie starting Friday.
Djokovic pulled out of the weekend's action in the southern city of Bangalore citing fatigue and family reasons after being stunned by Japan's Kei Nishikori in the US Open semi-final last week.
India's non-playing captain Anand Amritraj said Djokovic's absence will benefit the home team, but warned a return to the elite 16-nation World Group after two years in the zonal competition will not be easy.
"The Serbs have a strong side and it will be important to take a point on the opening day," said Amritraj. "Hopefully, the pressure will get to them in front of our crowds."
Serbia were relegated to the play-offs for the first time since 2007 when, playing without Djokovic, they lost to Roger Federer's Switzerland in the first round in February.
The 2010 champions are also without the injured duo of Janko Tipsarevic and Viktor Troicki, but coach Bogdan Obradovic said he was ready for the challenge on the hardcourts of Bangalore.
"We have worked hard here for the past week and got used to the conditions," Obradovic said. "Any side is tough to beat at home, and India are no exception, but we will do well."
Novak Djokovic pull-out raises India\\\'s hopes
FE Team | Published: September 12, 2014 00:00:00 | Updated: November 30, 2026 06:01:00
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