New Zealand's number one tennis player Marina Erakovic will watch the ASB Classic from the side line next year due to injury.
Marina Erakovic Photo: Photosport
An ongoing back issue means Erakovic will spend the summer rehabilitating and relaxing at the beach.
"With great regret, I confirm that I will not be able to compete at the 2018 ASB Classic and Australian Open," the world No 207 said in a statement.
"Unfortunately, due to an ongoing injury with my back, I need more rehabilitation and recovery time.
"As a result, my return to competition is still uncertain and I will be applying for a protected ranking.
"Considering this outcome, I have decided to take full advantage of my first ever summer break in New Zealand by exchanging my tennis shoes for my jandals and finally getting to see some of these beautiful Kiwi beaches."
Tournament Director, Karl Budge said Erakovic has played a huge part in NZ tennis and would be missed at the tournament.
"It is such a shame for Marina, her fans and obviously for the ASB Classic as we would have loved to see Marina on court.
"She has led women's tennis in this country for a decade and will be a strange feeling starting a week without our kiwi number one in the draw."
"We wish her all the best for a speedy recovery and hope to see her back out on court as soon as possible."
The ASB Classic spans two weeks, with the women's tournament running from January 1-6, followed by the men's tournament from January 8-13.
