Although Juan Martin Del Potro was not expected to play at Wimbledon next week, rumors did circulate that the Argentine star was making a faster than expected recovery from wrist surgery and might be able to take part in the U.S. hardcourt season coming up. That does not look to be the case after the Farmers Classic in Los Angeles confirmed today that Del Potro has withdrawn from playing there. Despite this, the tournament boasts an impressive field with a Grand Slam champion and two former champions as well.
Although there’s still a remote possibility Del Potro could play the U.S. Open, it looks doubtful if he doesn’t take part in any of the warm-up events leading up to it. Del Potro confirmed his withdrawal from L.A. by saying, “I am very disappointed that I will not be able to play the Farmers Classic at UCLA. I was really looking forward to playing where I won my first American and hardcourt events, but unfortunately my wrist injury does not allow me to. I will be back, fully fit to play in Los Angeles next year.”
The Farmers Classic will have No. 3 in the world Novak Djokovic as its top seed along with defending champion Sam Querrey and 2007 champion Radek Stepanek. Other notable entrants include Ernests Gulbis, Feliciano Lopez, Mardy Fish, Robby Ginepri and James Blake who hopes to revive his 2010 season after missing most of it due to injury. Bob and Mike Bryan, defending doubles champions, are set to return as well.
“The 2010 Farmers Classic player field is very strong,” said tournament director Bob Kramer. “There will be Grand Slam champions, former Farmers Classic champions, American heroes and international stars. This strong lineup coupled with the special events we have added this year will give us an incredible 11 days of tennis and entertainment at the LA Tennis Center.”
For more information about the Farmers Classic, click here.
Adjusting the Net 