World number two Novak Djokovic was forced to pull out of the Monte Carlo Masters, the in-form Serb blaming a knee injury on his absence.

“It’s a tough blow and sad news not only for this tournament and my fans, but also for myself,” said Djokovic, who lives in the principality.

“I practise all year long on the courts at the Monte Carlo Country Club and it’s unfortunately with great regret that I’ve taken this decision to pull out,” added Djokovic.

Rafael Nadal, beaten by Djokovic in Indian Wells and Miami recently, is gunning for a seventh title on the clay of Monaco.

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