Monday, 7 January 2008, 11:48 GMT
Virus leads to Federer withdrawal
World number one Roger Federer has withdrawn from the Kooyong Classic in Melbourne because of a stomach virus.
The eight-man exhibition tournament is a warm-up for the Australian Open which begins on 14 January, with Federer hoping to retain his title.
"After arriving in Australia I came down with a stomach virus and it continued to get worse," said Federer.
Qatar Open winner Andy Murray does compete, but German Tommy Haas has also pulled out with a shoulder injury.
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Federer is yet to play this year, and will be rusty ahead of the defence of his Australian Open title.
"The doctors have advised me that I should take a couple of days off and recuperate so that I am able to be 100% for the start of the Australian Open," he added.
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