World number two Rafael Nadal pulls out of Spain’s opening ATP Cup tie against Australia today, complaining of a stiff lower back.
The 20-time Grand Slam champion was due to take the court against Australia’s top-ranked player Alex De Minaur but opted to rest instead as he prepares for the Australian Open next week.
Nadal added that he hoped to have recovered by Thursday when Spain meet Greece.
Spanish number two Roberto Bautista Agut will now face de Minaur, while John Millman takes on Pablo Carreno Busta in the opening rubber.
Nadal, who is aiming for a record-breaking 21st Slam title in Melbourne, moving him past the injured Roger Federer, played an exhibition in Adelaide, beating Dominic Thiem 7-5, 6-4.
