“Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the BNP Paribas Open,” a statement read.

“As the next player in line to be seeded,Grigor Dimitrov will move into Djokovic’s space in the draw,and a lucky loser from qualifying will move into Dimitrov’s space in the draw once qualifying is complete.”

It’s the second time this year Djokovic has been forced to withdraw from a tournament at the 11th hour,following the saga that engulfed the Australian Open.

Djokovic will almost certainly make his next appearance on tour next month,at the Monte Carlo Masters.

While Djokovic will take no part at Indian Wells,there was good news for Thanasi Kokkinakis.

The new Australian Open doubles champion won his way into the main draw in California with a 7-6,7-5 win against Canadian Vasek Pospisil in the final round of qualifying.

Kokkinakis will also reunite with Nick Kyrgios in the men’s doubles for the first time since their success at Melbourne Park.

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