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Former World No.1 James Willstrop has been forced to withdraw from the upcoming 2016 UCS Swedish Open, PSA M70 event that takes place between Thursday February 4 – Sunday February 7 in Linköping due to illness.

The Yorkshireman had been seeded sixth for the tournament and, after an upturn in recent form that saw him memorably dispatch World No.1 Mohamed Elshorbagy in November’s PSA Men’s World Championship, would have been confident of challenging for a second Swedish Open title after he won his first in 2008.

Willstrop’s withdrawal sees Scotland’s Greg Lobban move into the main draw, with England’s Chris Simpson moving up to one of the seeded positions.

“James is a really well-respected player and we wish him a full recovery,” said tournament promoter Fredrik Johnson.

“However, we are still looking forward to one of the most unpredictable Swedish Open events ever. With six of the world’s top 15 players in action, including German No.1 Simon Rösner, World Championship semi-finalist Tarek Momen and Hong Kong Open finalist Cameron Pilley, this year’s instalment of the Swedish Open looks to be the most tightly-contested tournament yet.

“We have been buoyed by the fantastic response that the tournament has received once again in Linköping and, after excellent ticket sales, are excited to see a packed crowd gather for an unforgettable tournament.”

Main Draw: UCS Swedish Open 2016

[2] Karim Abdel Gawad (EGY) v [WC] Rasmus Hult (SWE)

Greg Lobban (SCO) v [8] Chris Simpson (ENG)

[5] Daryl Selby (ENG) v [Qualifier]

Alan Clyne (SCO) v [4] Max Lee (HKG)

[3] Tarek Momen (EGY) v Adrian Waller (ENG)

[Qualifier] v [6] Fares Dessouki (EGY)

[7] Cameron Pilley (AUS) v [Qualifier]

[Qualifier] v [1] Simon Rösner (GER)

Having been held for the first time in the 1970s, the Swedish Open has grown to become one of the most prestigious International-level tournaments on the PSA World Tour calendar and is set to enter its 13th year under the stewardship of ActiPro Event.

The 2016 UCS Swedish Open gets under way with qualification on February 2 – February 3 with the main draw action commencing at Linköping Sporthall, Linköping from February 4 – February 7. Tickets can be purchased here.