Rafael Nadal Pulls Out of Australian Open

Rafael Nadal has sent shockwaves throughout the tennis world after withdrawing from the Australian Open.

The 11-times grand slam champion, who reached the final in Melbourne last year, had been expected to make his comeback from injury next month.

Nadal's withdrawal means he will slip out of the top four for the first time in over seven years.

After pulling out of an exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi this week with a stomach infection.(cnn)