Elbow injury forces Novak Djokovic out of Miami Open

Six-time Miami Open champion Novak Djokovic announced Sunday he is withdrawing from this year's tournament due to an injury to his right elbow.

Djokovic's decision comes one day after world No. 1 Andy Murray also withdrew because of an elbow injury.

Djokovic, the world No. 2, said the elbow has been bothering him for months and got inflamed during last week's BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, Calif. He has won the last three Miami Open titles.

He said in a statement, "I will do everything in my power to recover and do all the necessary therapy to be able to return on court as soon as possible. Sadly, I won't be able to defend my title in Miami this week."

Djokovic defeated Kei Nishikori in last year's final for his fifth title in the past six years. Murray is a two-time winner.

Eight-time champion Serena Williams isn't part of the women's field due to a knee injury. She will drop to world No. 2 behind Angelique Kerber on Monday.

First-round play begins Wednesday with the final scheduled for April 2.