It has been confirmed that world champion Michael van Gerwen won't be able to defend his UK Open title because of a back injury.
Van Gerwen, who was hoping to win the UK Open for the third year in a row, had already been forced to miss Thursday's Premier League action in Exeter.
The Dutchman is also ruled out of this weekend's event at the Butlins Minehead Resort following further treatment in the Netherlands.
The PDC confirmed in a statement on Friday morning: "As a result of the withdrawal under Rule 3.7, no replacement will be made in the field for the Coral UK Open, and the third round draw on Friday will feature 31 ties, with one player receiving a Bye through to the fourth round."
Van Gerwen tweeted confirmation of his withdrawal: "Just made decision, unfortunately I'm not fit enough to travel and play in U.K. Open. I'm gona work on strong recovery. Thanks to my fans!
"And what people always telling me, it's not a sprint it's a marathon."
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