Two-time Australian Open winner Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from the tournament after sustaining a hip injury during the Brisbane International.

The 37-year-old made his return to tennis Down Under after spending the best part of a year on the sidelines but could not make it past a quarter-final tie with Jordan Thompson.

Nadal said a scan had shown a micro tear on a muscle but not in the same area as his previous long-term injury.

On social media, he added: "I have worked very hard during the year for this comeback and as I always mentioned my goal is to be at my best level in three months.

"Within the sad news for me for not being able to play in front of the amazing Melbourne crowds, this is not very bad news and we all remain positive with the evolution for the season. 

"I really wanted to play in Australia and I have had the chance to play a few matches that made me very happy and positive. 

"Thanks all for the support and see you soon!"

The 22-time Grand Slam champion will now spend time in recovery with the hope of being fit to feature in May's French Open.

Nadal is a 14-time winner of the European tournament and may have one last shot at success on the clay courts after admitting 2024 might be the last year of his career.

2023 was the first time he had missed the French Open in 19 years and his reoccurring hip injuries are making it more difficult to compete at his best level.

The Australian Open begins on January 14 and reigning champion Novak Djokovic will be hoping to fend off Carlos Alcaraz to reclaim his title.