Tipsarevic reveals tumour battles the reason for lengthy lay-off

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  • Sidelined: Tipsarevic has revealed he is battling with a tumour in his left foot.

    Serbian tennis star Janko Tipsarevic revealed yesterday that a recurring benign tumour on his left foot has been the reason behind his lengthy injury absence.

    The ex-world No8 has not played a match since October last year and underwent surgery three months ago for fibromatosis (benign soft tissue tumour) on the heel of his left foot.

    On his road to recovery, another benign tumour appeared near the surgical scar which has now further postponed his return date.

    “I was operated on again in Frankfurt and I hope all will be well this time,” said the 30-year-old. “The problem with fibromatosis is that it can keep coming back.

    “The agony of this injury seems to have no end. Living in suspense, when no one can guarantee the outcome, is a horrible feeling. The most difficult thing for an athlete is not knowing when they will get back on the court. My team and I have done everything in our power and everything that we feel to be the best thing for my recovery, and all I can do now is believe in it firmly.

    “I cannot even describe how much I miss tennis.”

    Tipsarevic added that for “almost a year” he has been unable to walk without crutches and that pain has forced him into a wheelchair since May.

    The Belgrade-native, who welcomed his first child with his wife Biljana last January, was part of the Serbian Davis Cup-winning team in 2010. He is the owner of four ATP titles and is a two-time US Open quarter-finalist.

    Tipsarevic is meant to take part in the inaugural season of the International Premier Tennis League (IPTL) and has been drafted to the Dubai-based team, the UAE Royals. It is unclear whether the Serb will be able to participate in the event.

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