The Brisbane tennis International has lost its second US Open champion in 48 hours.
Juan Martin del Potro in action in Sydney last January Photo: Photosport
Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro has joined world No.9 Marin Cilic in withdrawing from next week's season-opening tournament, del Potro pulling out due to a persistent left wrist injury, while the Croatian Cilic is out with a right shoulder injury.
Del Potro has been out of the game since undergoing surgery in March, but had targeted Brisbane as his return to the ATP Tour.
Despite the pair's withdrawal, a strong field is expected for the event - Roger Federer, Kei Nishikori, Milos Raonic, Grigor Dimitrov and Juan Martin del Potro have all confirmed their participation.
