(VIDEO) Injury fears for Novak Djokovic at United Cup....albeit not a new issue as he skips mixed doubles

Novak Djokovic was hampered by his wrist in taking down Jiri Lehecka 6-1, 6-7(3), 6-1 in Perth to make it 1-1 between Serbia and Czech Republic. But despite that, he won't answer the call in terms of mixed doubles with his protege, Hamad Medjedovic instead teaming with Olga Danilovic.

This is due to an injury to his wrist with footage released showing that it has been an issue for the Serbian since practice earlier today. But it is a long standing one so perhaps isn't to be feared nearly as much in terms of his Australian Open plans.

This issue occurred also last year in Monte Carlo and Rome and previously manifested itself at the Laver Cup when he faced Felix Auger-Aliassime in 2022 so has been a long-standing troublesome injury.

But will put fear into Serbia's charge at least if they move through to the Quarter-Finals with it being remained to be seen whether Djokovic would still play or like Tsitsipas with Greece, he is merely taking precaution. So in terms of his Australian Open plans, this may put fear into Djokovic fans, but given it is a long-standing issue slightly softens the blow.

The mixed doubles to decide the victor of the tie and Serbia's fate will begin shortly in Perth.