Tennis: Novak to miss first grand slam

Jiri Novak has announced he will not take part in next month's Australian Open.

The Czech Republic Davis Cup star, ranked 24 in the world, blames family commitments and fatigue for his decision to shun the first grand slam of the new season which gets under way in Melbourne on January 17.

"As of now I want to compete less. Family has to come first for me," said father-of-three Novak.

"I don't know when I'll be back on the circuit. I've had quite a difficult season, I need some rest at the moment and so I will surely not make it to Australia."

Novak claimed two victories on the ATP Tour in 2004, at Tokyo and Basle.

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