Nalbandian has reached at least the semi-finals at all four Grand Slams

Former world number three David Nalbandian of Argentina has withdrawn from the Australian Open after straining an abdominal muscle.

The 28-year-old, a former semi-finalist at Melbourne Park, has not played since undergoing hip surgery in May.

Nalbandian, who was also forced out of last week's Heineken Open in Auckland, has slipped to 63 in the rankings.

Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic and Juan Martin del Potro began their seasons with wins at the Kooyong Classic.

Djokovic, the world number three and 2008 Australian Open champion, defeated Tommy Haas 6-2 6-3 at the exhibition event.

"I got used to playing good tennis on Australian soil, I'm always happy to come back, I have a lot of support," said Djokovic.

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US Open champion Del Potro, ranked four in the world, beat Ivan Ljubicic 6-3 6-3, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga saw off Robin Soderling 7-6 (7-0) 6-1, and Fernando Verdasco defeated Fernando Gonzalez 7-5 6-1.

"Nothing changed for my life after the US Open," stated Del Potro. "I still have the same friends and parents and coaches, and that's important.

"I'm in good shape. I hope to have a good tournament next week. I feel good with my tennis, I feel confident. I don't know if I'm favourite."

Andy Murray will complete his Australian Open preparation with one final match at Kooyong on Thursday.

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