British number two Tim Henman will miss this month's Australian Open after aggravating a knee injury in practice.
Henman, who has not competed since hurting his knee in Basel in October, tweaked a hamstring tendon during practice just before Christmas.
"I'm disappointed," the 32-year-old said. "But my main concern now is getting back to full fitness.
"A Grand Slam is out of the question as I'd only want to go if I felt I had a chance of doing well."
"Hopefully I'll be able to make up for lost time once I do get back on court"
Henman, who has been treated by former England rugby international and consultant orthopaedic surgeon Jonathan Webb, has been advised to rest for another seven to 10 days.
That diagnosis put an end to Henman's hopes of competing at the Australian Open, where he has reached the fourth round three times.
The Briton is now focused on making a return at an indoor tournament in Zagreb at the end of the month.
"The good news is the specialist doesn't think the injury is too serious and hopefully I'll be able to make up for lost time once I do get back on court," said Henman.
"I've entered a couple of extra tournaments in Marseille and Rotterdam in February."
Henman also remained confident he would feature at the Australian Open in the future saying, "as of now I expect to be back in Melbourne next year".
After a difficult 2006 season, Henman climbed back into the world's top 40 last October and would have gone to Australia as the world number 39.