Dubai, Nov 27 (IANS): Current World No.7 Eugenie Bouchard, who was to represent the UAE Royals in the inaugural International Premier Tennis League (IPTL), has been forced to withdraw from the event due to an injury she sustained in training Monday. French player Kristina Mladenovic will take Bouchard’s place.

“I'm really disappointed I will be unable to compete in the IPTL this year due to an injury that I recently suffered in practice. I was excited to be part of the first year and represent the team from Dubai. I wish all of the players the best of luck and I sincerely hope to be healthy and back next year," Eugenie Bouchard said.

IPTL founder Mahesh Bhupathi said: “Genie’s exit is disappointing news but we’re glad that Kristina was readily available to take her place. We wish Genie a quick recovery and look forward to her joining us in season two.”

UAE Royals are all set for the three-day extravaganza that will see them playing their first ever IPTL match in Dubai against the Manila Mavericks.

The Royals include World No.1 Novak Djokovic, World No.9 Marin Cilic, former World No.1 Caroline Wozniacki, legendary Goran Ivanisevic, who is also Cilic’s coach, doubles specialist Nenad Zimonjic, and Malek Jaziri.

IPTL will be held in the Philippines, India, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates between Nov 28 and Dec 13.