In his comeback season, Sebastian Ofner repeatedly had issues with his right wrist and pain in his operated heels. These complaints have recently increased. Therefore, he has to forgo the Erste Bank Open in Vienna and undergo further examinations.

Wildcard for Erste Bank Open goes to Rodionov after Ofner's withdrawal

"Unfortunately, since my return to the tennis court, I have never been completely pain-free, and recently the complaints have become more severe. I would have loved to play in Vienna, but due to my physical condition, I unfortunately have to withdraw from one of my major season highlights," explained Ofner. He will undergo more detailed examinations on his wrist and heels on Monday and will inform about his further plans during the next week. Tournament director and Ofner's manager Herwig Straka regretted this. "It's a shame that Sebastian cannot participate in Vienna, especially since he returned to the ATP Tour with strong performances in the first half of the season despite his physical problems. But the top priority now is for him to become completely fit again and play pain-free."

The vacant spot at the ATP 500 tournament has now been given to Davis Cup hero Rodionov. In September, he contributed two points to the 3-2 victory over Hungary in Debrecen, which means the ÖTV team will be at the Final 8 in Bologna (November 19 against Italy). Rodionov is participating in the main draw of the Stadthalle tournament for the third time after 2020 and 2022. "Jurij fully convinced at the Davis Cup. If he can bring this form to Vienna, he can be expected to achieve a lot here as well," believes Straka.

(APA/Red)

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