Tomic withdraws from Brisbane qualifiers

Bernard Tomic has pulled out of qualifying for the Brisbane International, casting further doubt over his tennis future.

Tomic was listed to play in the 16-man qualifying event from Saturday but has had his name crossed from the draw on the ATP Tour website.

Tournament officials are aware of the move but are yet to be told of the reason behind the one-time world No.17's decision.

The Gold Coast player's career hit a brick wall this year, with the 25-year-old falling from No.26 to No.140 in the world.

It put him outside automatic qualification for next month's Australian Open and Brisbane International, and Tennis Australia have so far opted against offering Tomic a wildcard to play his home grand slam.

Tomic won just 10 of 39 matches in 2017, a first-round Wimbledon loss coming with a $20,000 fine and loss of racquet sponsor Head after he confessed he was bored.

He has also knocked back invitations to train with the Davis Cup squad, while also skipping this month's Australian Open wildcard play-offs.

The worrying slump led former world No.1 John Newcombe to suggest Tomic should consider taking a break from the sport.

Two Australian Open wildcards are still available but Tomic's latest move is unlikely to strengthen his claims.