The injury comeback for tennis player Nick Kyrgios has stalled, after a new ailment scuppered his Australian Open preparations and put the former world No 13 in doubt for his home grand slam.

The 29-year-old has been rehabbing a surgically repaired wrist and returned to the court at the Brisbane International last week, where he showed promise despite a loss in his first round singles match.

The outspoken Australian travelled to Melbourne on Wednesday, but triggered anxiety for organisers with a post on Instagram just four days before the tournament’s start.

“I’ve had an ultrasound on my abdominal and have a grade one strain,” Kyrgios said. “Will be resting and doing everything I can to be okay for the Australian Open.”

Kyrgios is one of the highest profile players in men’s tennis and had been due to play in an opening week charity match with Novak Djokovic on Thursday, but pulled out as part of his recovery.

The Australian has missed much of the past two years due to injury, after a successful 2022 where he reached the Wimbledon final.

Kyrgios underwent surgery on his wrist in 2023 and has said even returning to the court after such a procedure would be a miracle.

After his singles defeat to France’s Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in Brisbane, Kyrgios said his wrist had been “throbbing” and although he had concerns over his body he was still excited to play in Melbourne.

“If I’m able to play, I’m able to play. But the reality kind of set in to me,” Kyrgios said after his loss in Brisbane.

“Not only is a grand slam mentally really draining, like you’re there for two-and-a-half, three weeks, it’s physically a grind.”

Kyrgios also played doubles in Brisbane, teaming up with his friend Djokovic and reaching the second round.

World No 8 Alex de Minaur is the top-ranked Australian for the Melbourne Park tournament. The draw will be made on Thursday.