Djokovic skips Serbia's Davis Cup opener with India

Published November 20, 2014

LONDON (Reuters) - World number three Novak Djokovic has decided to skip Serbia's Davis Cup World Group opener against India in Novi Sad, electing instead to travel to the United States and prepare for upcoming tournaments in Indian Wells and Miami.

"After talks with the coach and players, I have decided not to play against India," Djokovic said.

"I hope that my decision doesn't upset you (Serbia's fans), and that you give support to our boys in their attempt to bring further success to Serbian tennis, regardless of my decision."

Despite the absence of Djokovic, a regular for his country since debuting in the competition in 2004, Serbia should still have too much firepower against an Indian side whose highest-ranked singles player is Somdev Devvarmen at 93.

Viktor Troicki, who won the decisive fifth rubber against France in Belgrade, has enjoyed an impressive start to the year, rising to 18th in the rankings while Janko Tipsarevic is 45th.

The tie begins Friday.

(Reporting by Martyn Herman; Editing by Greg Stutchbury)

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