Alexander Zverev is a major doubt for the Australian Open after suffering a hamstring injury at an exhibition event in Adelaide.
Zverev is fourth-favourite for the first grand slam of 2019 after finishing last year fourth in the world rankings, his season ending with the ATP Finals crown in London.
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The German was in fine spirits as he partnered Angelique Kerber at the Hopman Cup last week – the duo losing the final to Switzerland's Roger Federer and Belinda Bencic.
However, his chances in Melbourne have been dealt a huge blow with the news he pulled his hamstring during practice on Monday.
World No.4 Alexander Zverev (GER) has withdrawn from the World Tennis Challenge.
— WTC Adelaide (@WTCAdelaide) January 7, 2019
Fernando Verdasco will play Borna Coric in the men’s singles match this evening.#WTCAdelaide https://t.co/Xa8fzyrheh
Speaking to the crowd at the World Tennis Challenge, Zverev said he intends to get plenty of rest to ensure he is fit to feature at Melbourne Park next week.
The draw for the Australian Open will take place on Thursday.
