Last Updated: Mon, 05 May 2008 13:02
Novak Djokovic has denied that he pulls out of big matches, after withdrawing from the Monte Carlo semi-final with Roger Federer.
Sections of the tennis media have suggested that the talented Serb has a habit of conceding matches against the top players with injury or illness, especially if he is losing at the time.
However, the Australian Open champion and world number three refuted the claims and revealed that he was forced to take medication after pulling out of his clash with the world number one in the Principality.
"I don't do that," he said. "I always give 100% and try to win. That's what sport is about.
"It's hurtful when people are talking like that. I'm very unhappy if that is my reputation. I'm a big fighter.
"Maybe I could have gone another three-four games and finish the match, but I think everyone saw how tough I was breathing.
"I'm still on antibiotics. I don't feel 100%. I've requested a Wednesday start and I hopefully I'll recover and be ready."