The build-up to the eagerly-awaited encounter between the defending champions and Serbia has been overshadowed by the decision of both players not to participate in the contest, which is scheduled to conclude on Sunday (July 17), amid a packed schedule of tournaments.

Djokovic announced his withdrawal from the tie following his shock defeat to Sam Querrey in the third round at Wimbledon, which ended his pursuit of a successful title defence.

Murray, whose victory at the All England Club gave him his third Grand Slam crown, is expected to travel with the British team to Belgrade but will not take part, marking the first Davis Cup match he has missed for over three years.

Despite the blow to his team’s chances of success against Serbia, Britain’s Davis Cup captain Leon Smith insists he understands the reason behind Murray’s decision.

It comes ahead of a busy run of major tournaments, with the Rio 2016 Olympic tennis competition scheduled for August 6 to 14 before the US Open at Flushing Meadows in New York later in the month.

“Quite rightly he has to look after his body and his mind,” Smith told the BBC.

“He's got his eyes set on getting some rest and really making a big push for the Olympics, US Open and beyond.

“We would love him to come out and support.

“We are a really, really close unit.”

Britain’s team will include Kyle Edmund, James Ward, Andy's brother Jamie Murray and Dominic Inglot, while Serbia’s contingent features Dusan Lajovic, Filip Krajinovic, Janko Tipsarevic and Nenad Zimonjic.

The match between Britain and Serbia is one of four Davis Cup World Group quarter-finals due to be held over the coming weekend.

Italy host Argentina in Pesaro, while the Czech Republic, winners in 2012 and 2013, take on France in Trimec.

The fourth tie sees the United States entertain Croatia in Portland.