10 Jan 2019

David Ferrer forced out of ASB Classic with injury

7:33 pm on 10 January 2019

The Spanish tennis star David Ferrer lasted just 20 minutes in his last ASB Classic tennis tournament in Auckland.

Spain's David Ferrer

Photo: PHOTOSPORT

The four time champion was forced to retire with a calf injury just three games into his second round match with fourth seed Pablo Carreño of Spain.

"I'm disappointed that I can't finish my last match here in Auckland but I am positive because I've played here 14 years and have very good memories of the fans who have always supported me.

I'm disappointed but in the near future I'm sure I will be happy and appreciative of everything that people have done for me over these years.

The ceremony was very impressive and emotional. This was the best trophy I could receive, knowing that the people enjoyed and appreciated watching me play tennis. I will always treasure this."

Ferrer is the most successful tennis player to attend the ASB Classic having won four titles and won 31 won games during during his appearances (more than any other player).

Spain's David Ferrer retires injured.

Photo: © Copyright Andrew Cornaga / www.photosport.nz Photosport Ltd 2019

New Zealander Rubin Statham was beaten in straight sets by Jan-Lennard Struff of Germany, while New Zealand-born Cameron Norrie of Great Britain won his second round match against Joao Sousa of Portugal in straight sets.

Earlier top seed John Isner suffered a straight sets defeat at the hands of fellow American Taylor Fritz in the second round.

The big-serving Isner, ranked 10th in the world, fired 26 aces but struggled on his second serve as Fritz took full advantage to edge the match in an hour and 39 minutes.

"I really wanted to get the win on him. I knew I could," said Fritz. "We had a lot of close points and it just feels really good to get through that," world number 50 Fritz said.

The 21-year-old converted one out of three break points and saved three on his serve.

"I like to think that one of my strengths is playing under pressure and playing the big moments well," Fritz added.

"More often than not, the matches I lose, that's where I get let down. So I'm happy to start the year ... playing well under pressure and handling those big moments well."

Fritz will next face Norrie.