Spain will instead be represented by Pablo Carreno Busta (19th in the world rankings), Albert Ramos (24th), Marcel Granollers (41th) and doubles specialist Marc Lopez.

World number seven Nadal, who played in the first-round victory over Croatia, had already hinted that he would not take part in the match-up against Serbia, which coincides with a required rest period unless the tie were to be played on clay -- it will take place on hardcourt.

Spain, five-time Davis Cup champions, are eyeing a place in the semi-finals for the first time since 2012.