World number one Carlos Alcaraz is out of the Australian Open after injuring his leg during pre-season training.
He was due to play in the Kooyong Classic next week before the start of the Australian Open on January 16.
“When I was at my best in pre-season, I got injured as a result of a fortuitous and unnatural movement,” said Alcaraz.
“I worked so hard to reach my best for Australia but unfortunately I won’t be able to play the Kooyong or the Australian Open.”
He added: “It’s tough, but I have to be optimistic, recover and look to the future. See you at the Australian Open 2024.”
Alcaraz became the youngest man to hold the world number one position after beating Casper Ruud in the US Open final in New York four months ago.
His absence from the Australian Open means compatriot and defending champion Rafael Nadal is expected to be the men’s top seed at Melbourne Park.
An abdominal injury ruled Alcaraz out of the season-ending ATP Finals and Davis Cup towards the end of 2022.
