Nadal pulls out of Thailand Open

World number two Rafael Nadal has pulled out of next week's Thailand Open as he continues to recover from an abdominal injury.

The Spaniard, 23, suffered a heavy defeat by Juan Martin del Potro in his last outing in the US Open semi-finals.

Nadal was hampered by the injury at Flushing Meadows and withdrew from the Spanish squad that beat Israel to reach the Davis Cup final.

"The injury needs to be taken care of," said Nadal who must rest for 10 days.

An ultrasound found Nadal has an "acute rupture of his right abdominal muscle".

"I'm very disappointed not to be able to play in Bangkok," added Nadal.

"I'm really looking forward to playing next year in Thailand where I have a very loyal and big fan base."