David Nalbandian withdraws from Auckland Open

David Nalbandian's planned comeback to the ATP Tour was put back on hold after he injured himself in training on Monday.

The Argentine has not played a tour match since May last year after being sidelined by a hip injury then recovering from surgery.

He had planned to make his return at this week's Auckland Open in New Zealand but had to pull out on the eve of his comeback after straining an abdominal muscle in practice.

"I am very disappointed not to be able to make my comeback this week. I was very much looking forward into playing in Auckland once again," Nalbandian said.

"I didn't play much tennis for eight months so it is natural to suffer some small injuries.

"Although I am disappointed at the moment, I remain confident and positive about making a full time comeback to the tour soon."

Nalbandian was due to play former Auckland Open winner Philipp Kohlschreiber in the first round on Tuesday but scans showed he suffered a slight strain, possibly jeopardising his chances of playing in the Australian Open.

"These usually take 10 to 15 days to come right," tournament director Richard Palmer told the New Zealand Press Association.

Nalbandian has reached the semi-finals of all four grand slam events and the Wimbledon final in 2002. He also won the the ATP''s season-ending championship in 2005 but has dropped to 63rd in the world rankings during his long absence.