Isner, Monfils Withdraw From Auckland; Will The Frenchman Play The Australian Open?

Defending champion John Isner and Gael Monfils both withdrew from next week’s event in Auckland. Isner, who is playing in the Hopman Cup final tonight, wanted to prepare for the Australian Open in Melbourne while Monfils withdrew due to personal reasons, the tournament said.

Monfils may also miss the Australian Open. Tournament director Karl Budge said he was “unsure” if Monfils would play at the Australian Open.

Said Isner, “As much as I would like to be competing in Auckland to defend my title, I feel at this time it is best for me to hit the practice courts in advance of the Australian Open.”