Posted March 18, 2017 09:07:12

Photo: Nick Kyrgios said he needed to be at his best to stand any chance against Roger Federer. (AP: Mark J. Terrill)

Nick Kyrgios has withdrawn from his quarter-final match at Indian Wells against Swiss star Roger Federer, due to sickness.

Kyrgios says he believes he has food poisoning.

The controversial 21-year-old added on social media that he needs to be at his best to play Federer, and didn't take the decision lightly.

"At this stage we think it's food poisoning, and I'm praying it's nothing more," he said.

"After a restless night of being sick I have nothing left and to play a great champion like Roger, I need to be at my best to have a chance.

"These are the matches we train for but I'm in no fit state to take to the court.

"I'm sorry to the fans that I'm unable to take to the court but I have to put my health first and I hope you understand.

" I want to wish Roger the best of luck for the rest of the tournament and thank every one for their support so far."

Kyrgios reached the last eight at Indian Wells by beating world number two Novak Djokovic in straight sets the second time he had beaten the super Serb in the space of a fortnight.

Topics: tennis, sport, united-states