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Draper, who is ranked No.10 in the world, was forced to withdraw from the second round of the US Open in August because of bone bruising in his left arm.

"Unfortunately, me and my team have decided not to head out to Australia this year. It's a really, really tough decision," the British No.1 said in a video posted on X.

The 24-year-old is targeting a February return alongside preparation for the defence of his Indian Wells title in March.

"This injury has been the most difficult and complex of my career," Draper added. "It's weird, it always seems to make me more resilient. I'm looking forward to getting back out there in 2026 and competing."

The Australian Open begins on 18 January in Melbourne.