18 December 2012 | Tennis West

Local favourite Casey Dellacqua has been forced to withdraw from the Hyundai Hopman Cup due to injury.

The West Australian native was looking forward to playing in front of her home crowd, but a foot injury the former top 40 player picked up in Osaka in October proved to be her downfall.

“So disappointed to withdraw from Hopman Cup due to a foot injury sustained in Osaka,” said Dellacqua.

“It’s a Peroneal Brevis tear and although it’s getting better every day it’s not going to be ready in time for Perth and I can’t rush my return to competition. I really hope I can try and play in Hobart if I’m ready and if I get a wildcard.

“I always love playing at Hopman Cup, the people of Perth always get behind me and it’s a great feeling to have so much support. I was also really looking forward to being part of history and playing at the new Perth Arena. Hopefully I have the chance to come back next year.”

Dellacqua was due to team with Australia’s Bernard Tomic in the December 29 to 5 January event. A replacement for Dellacqua will be announced shortly.

“We are so disappointed for Casey that she’s had to withdraw from the Hyundai Hopman Cup and wish her all the very best for a speedy recovery,” said Tournament Director Steve Ayles.

“I know how much playing this event means to her and how much she loves playing in front of her home crowd in Perth.

“Casey is concentrating hard on her rehab and is looking forward to playing again very soon.  I’m sure everyone will join the Hopman Cup team in wishing her all the best for her Australian Open preparation.”

With the tournament just days from beginning, excitement is mounting as Perth prepares for a host of the world’s best and favourite players including No.1 Novak Djokovic, Ana Ivanovic, Tommy Haas, Andrea Petkovic, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Fernando Verdasco and Venus Williams.