Surprise as Nadal pulls out

Barcelona - Rafael Nadal, fresh from his latest re-write of the record books with a sixth straight title in Monte Carlo, will not make it six in a row at this week's Barcelona Open after he said on Monday he is not physically ready to play.

A statement from the player's camp said he will explain his reasons on Tuesday in a media conference.

"I feel bad not playing in Barcelona, more than any another tournament," read the statement from the world number three.

"But after winning in Monte Carlo my body is asking me to rest.

"I feel really bad about this, it is my club and my event," said the winner of the last five editions.

"I've mentioned several times that the clay season calendar is poorly structured, he added.

"I want to thank members and fans in advance for their understanding," Nadal concluded.