Brisbane, Jan 2 (IBNS): Spanish Tennis giant Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from the Brisbane International with a left thigh injury.
Nadal, however, expressed hopes of becoming fit for the Australian Open.
The first grand slam of the year will be played this month.
“I did an MRI and it shows a small staring on my left thigh,” Nadal was quoted as saying by Brisbane International website.
“I tried to play, I wanted to play, but recommendations from the doctors (were otherwise), he said.
“It’s a small thing that can become a much bigger … when you compete the intensity on the muscle it can get worse," he said.
“I feel better than I did four days ago … It’s a risk to damage my body for one month if I play here," he said.
“I know it’s tough … I can’t thank enough the people who support me in my career — especially the tough moments,” he said.
Nadal was limited to nine tournaments last year due to a string of ailments.
His Brisbane preparation was disrupted in November due to ankle surgery in November.
Taro Daniel replaces Nadal in the draw and will face Jo-Wilfried Tsonga on Thursday.
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