A back complaint has forced Brisbane International feelgood story Reilly Opelka to retire in the first set of the final, handing Czech Jiri Lehecka the title.
Opelka missed nearly two years on tour after wrist and hip injuries but, having returned in July, had charmed the Pat Rafter Arena crowds on a run to the final that included the scalp of Novak Djokovic.
A lingering back injury got the better of the American giant on Sunday though, with Opelka attempting to play through the pain before retiring down 4-1 in the first set.
“Thank you and sorry at the same time,” the 211cm Opelka said.
“It’s been a great week for me … got a lot of great matches in here.
“The tournament doctors and physician were unbelievable. They threw the kitchen sink at it all day but it wasn’t right to compete.”
Opelka had treatment on his wrist in Saturday’s semi-final win and the former world No.17 is still confident of playing at the Australian Open from Sunday.
World No.28 Lehecka, who beat third seed Holger Rune in the first round, progressed to the final after defending champion Grigor Dimitrov retired from their semi-final on Saturday citing hip pain.
Lehecka, who was also to play in the doubles final later on Sunday, is in the draw to play this week’s Adelaide International, where he will defend his maiden title.
“I know how you feel, Reilly. It’s been an honour to see you back on tour,” Lehecka said.
“It was a great week here for me in Brisbane. I just love to play here in Australia.”
Content Source: www.perthnow.com.au