World No. 1, Lleyton Hewitt, has been forced to withdraw from the Hyundai Hopman Cup at the Burswood Resort in Perth due to chicken pox. This was confirmed this morning by tournament doctor, Peter Steele. Dr Steele said “Lleyton is suffering the effects of a viral infection and needs to rest up for a few days before resuming training. I see no reason why he wouldn’t be fit for the Australian Open.” Tournament Director, Paul McNamee said “Lleyton is obviously very disappointed and hopes to recover as quickly as possible.”
The program for tonight’s double-header has been re-vamped, however, Australia’s Alicia Molik will still lead off proceedings against Spain’s Arantxa Sanchez Vicario on Centre Court. Given Hewitt’s withdrawal, Australia is forfeiting the match to Spain who finishes first in Group B, with Australia finishing second. The match tonight between Switzerland and Argentina will determine who finishes third in the group.
After Belgian Kim Clijsters’ victory today over France’s Virginie Razzano, the match up tomorrow between Clijsters and USA’s Monica Seles looms as a pivotal match to determine the opponent for Spain in the final. “At the moment, all four teams in Group A are still capable of making the final”, said McNamee
