Alex de Minaur withdraws from Aussie Open with abdominal issue

Alex de Minaur is withdrawing from the Australian Open with an abdominal problem he experienced during ATP Cup.

The withdrawal is especially disappointing as he drew confidence from a good performance at the inaugural team event for Australia. "I think I sort of showed that I've got another part of my game that I can go to," de Minaur had told press at this week's event in Adelaide, where he had also been scheduled to play before the injury.

He played five matches during the ATP Cup, including a three-set singles and a long doubles in the quarterfinals against Great Britain, followed by a three-setter against Rafael Nadal in the semifinals.

"Right now my sole sort of focus is on making sure I recover," de Minaur had said, adding that it is an injury he's had before.

But despite several days of rehab, he is still not fit enough to compete in his home Slam starting next week.

The 20-year-old Australian is No. 21 in the ATP rankings.