After it appeared that there was a glimmer of hope that he was yet to compete, Marin Cilic officially withdrew from the Brisbane Open several days ago to deal with a shoulder injury sustained during the off-season.

Cilic revealed the news via his official twitter account:

“Very sad I had to withdraw from @BrisbaneTennis tournament. At least happy for my friend #matosevic who got in instead of me.”

The US Open champion’s untimely exit opens the doors for world No. 75 Marinko Matosevic to join the field, according to Brisbane International Tournament Director Cameron Pearson.

“It’s unfortunate Marin won’t be fit to compete in Brisbane and we wish him all the best for his recovery,” he said. “Matosevic will now gain direct entry into the field, joining fellow Aussies Lleyton Hewitt, Bernard Tomic and Thanasi Kokkinakis in the men’s draw. With a strong local contingent and some of the biggest international stars all coming to Brisbane, it’s certainly shaping up to be another great tournament.”

While Cilic would have made a fantastic addition to the draw, the expected attendees this year make it one of the most anticipated Brisbane International events since its inception. In the men’s draw, the tournament features the likes of champion Lleyton Hewitt, runner-up Roger Federer, Kei Nishikori, Grigor Dimitrov, Bernard Tomic and the returning Juan Martin del Potro.

The Brisbane International begins Jan. 4.