Djokovic is consoled by Russian team captain Shamil Tarpischev

Australian Open champion Djokovic had missed Friday's opening singles but returned to help Serbia in the doubles.

But despite holding a 6-4 6-3 4-6 lead over Davydenko on Sunday, Djokovic withdrew to give Russia a 3-1 lead.

Russia will meet the Czech Republic, while Argentina host Sweden, Germany take on Spain and the USA face France.

Sweden clinched the most dramatic tie of the weekend against Israel when Jonas Bjorkman won the deciding rubber against Harel Levy 0-6 6-4 6-3 7-6 (8-6) for a 3-2 victory.

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"I started off pretty badly, I felt that it couldn't get much worse, but in a five-setter you always have the chance to get back into the match," said Bjorkman.

Djokovic started in great form against Davydenko in his first singles match since winning in Australia but called it quits in the third set after feeling dizzy.

"I decided to stop because I don't want to risk my health," said Djokovic.

"I wanted to fight, I tried to play but in the end I was aware of the fact that I am very dizzy and I have a lack of energy. I just didn't want to continue because of the risk I had.

DAVIS CUP QUARTER-FINALS Russia v Czech Rep Argentina v Sweden Germany v Spain USA v France

"I didn't go to hospital after all but still, I was feeling very dizzy. I was losing a lot of energy. It's not easy to play when you have a virus infection."

Russia will go on to host the Czech Republic in the quarter-finals in April.