Federer, Serena pull out of IPTL over India's 'economic uncertainty'
What's the story
Roger Federer and Serena Williams, who were supposed to travel to Hyderabad for the third leg of 2016 International Premier Tennis League have decided not to participate in the tournament. IPTL released a statement saying that both the players withdrew due to country's economic uncertainty. Director of IPTL, Mahesh Bhupati said that he would try to bring the players back next year.
Details
Star players of the IPTL
In 2014, every team in the International Premier Tennis League had an icon player. Andy Murray, Novak Djokovic, Andre Agassi and Roger Federer were the men icon players. Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova and Caroline Wozniacki were the women icon players. In 2015, Novak, Agassi and Caroline pulled out of the tournament. But, Rafael Nadal participated as the icon player.
2016
Federer, Williams to play in IPTL
Former world number one Roger Federer and current world number two Serena Williams would be playing at the 2016 edition of IPTL, Mahesh Bhupati, owner of the IPTL had said. While Federer would play for Indian Aces, Serena would be a part of Singapore Slammers. Both these players have participated in the previous two editions of the tournament.
Data
Novak, Murray, Nadal not to take part in IPTL
World number one Andy Murray and number two Novak Djokovic have decided not to participate in this year's IPTL. Rafael Nadal, who is injured had already pulled out of the tournaments earlier this year.
Information
Comeback delayed for Roger
17-time grand slam champion Roger Federer's comeback after his surgery in February has again been delayed after he withdrew from IPTL. Federer will be back in action in the Hopman Cup which starts from 1 January 2017.