Published: 10 February, 2008, 17:44
Edited: 10 February, 2008, 17:44
Luck was on Russia’s side on the third day of Davis Cup first-round clash with Serbia. Russia led 2-1 before the Sunday's first singles, and made it 3-1 after World No.3, Novak Djokvic, pulled out of his match.
The Serb had completely dominated Nikolay Davydenko and comfortably taken the first two sets.
However, Djokovic started feeling ill in the third and had to retire.
“I stopped because I didn't want to risk my health,” Djokovic told reporters after showing up for a news conference more than an hour after his match.
“I was really surprised when Djokovic retired. Well, I knew he hasn't been training for the last couple of days, but he didn't show any sign of being sick in this game. However, I think I managed to come back in the third set, and I was feeling optimistic about the rest of the game,” Nikolay Davydenko commented.
Dmitry Tursunov lost to Viktor Trotski in the final match, but by then Russia were already through to the last eight.