Kei Nishikori pulls out of Australian Open due to injury

Another big name will be missing from the upcoming Australian Open, as Kei Nishikori announced his withdrawal from this month's Grand Slam event.

The Japanese star took to social media to make the announcement, stating that he would be withdrawing due to a hip injury.

"Since the end of last year I have been struggling with my hip," Nishikori said on Twitter. "It is not 100% recovered yet and I will have to pull out of the Aussie swing.

"This is very disappointing as the Australian Open feels like my "home" Grand Slam... And can't wait to be back next year."

Currently ranked 47th, the former World No.4 has been plagued by injuries in recent years, and has struggled to develop any sort of rhythm or consistency. The 2014 US Open finalist lost in the first round of last year's Australian Open.