The year’s first Grand Slam starts next week Monday in Melbourne.

The South African beanstalk, who is now ranked 68th in the world, decided to withdraw from the tournament after having failed to recover from a hip injury in time for the event.

Anderson experienced a nightmare year after having to watch the majority of tennis from the side-lines due to numerous injuries.

This has seen Anderson plummeting down the rankings from a career high of 10th.

The big-serving South African last played in Vienna, Austria, after being knocked out for Erste Bank Open by Serbia’s Viktor Troicki.

Anderson reached the fourth round of the hard court Gland Slam for three straight years from 2013 to 2015.

Via Twitter Anderson confirmed that he will not be competing in the tournament which he considers as one of his favourites on the tour.

“Unfortunately I’ve had to make the very tough decision to withdraw from the Australian Open this year.

“I am ready to miss one of my very favourite events each season.

“I am recovering from an injury sustained last year, but it is looking much better and I will be back to compete soon.

“I hope all the players and fans enjoy the tennis down under this year.

“Thanks for all the support.”

The Grand Slam’s organisers have confirmed that South Korea’s Hyeon Chung will replace the South African in the main draw.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport