Murray pulls out of Australian Open

Three-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray has withdrawn from next month's Australian Open following a setback in his recovery from a pelvic injury.

"I’ve worked so hard to get myself into a situation where I can play at the top level and I’m gutted I’m not going to be able to play in Australia in January," Murray said, according to the Australian Open's website.

Murray also pulled out of the ATP Cup in which he was set to represent Great Britain.

Returning to the Australian Open would have been an emotional bow for Murray. The Scotsman broke down in tears during a pre-tournament news conference, saying he fears an ongoing hip injury will force him to retire.

"After the AO this year, when I wasn’t sure whether I’d be able to play again, I was excited about coming back to Australia and giving my best, and that makes this even more disappointing for me," Murray said Friday.

"Unfortunately I’ve had a setback recently and as a precaution, need to work through that before I get back on court competing," he continued.

Murray hasn't played since Great Britain's opening match at the Davis Cup finals six weeks ago because of the pelvic issue.

The 32-year-old returned to competitive singles tennis in August. Murray went on to win the Antwerp Open two months later, beating fellow three-time Slam winner Stan Wawrinka in the final.