Juan Martin del Potro could delay his comeback once again, with the Argentine due to make his return next week in Brisbane but reportedly assessing whether he will be at a competitive level.
Argentine newspapers report that del Potro is not yet able to hit his two-handed backhand normally, having had wrist surgery nine months ago. A spokesperson for del Potro said the former U.S. Open champion had to cancel a practice session with Leonardo Mayer two weeks ago because he was "experiencing discomfort" in the left wrist, and had only hit with his coach and two Argentine juniors since the procedure.
The decision about whether to return "is not simple," said the spokesperson, and del Potro "has time till Thursday, to see whether or not to go to Brisbane."
Del Potro is currently ranked No. 137 and has not played singles since Dubai last February. He is entered in Brisbane and was said to be looking at playing in Sydney as additional Australian Open preparation.