Nick Kyrgios says the abdominal strain that has forced him to withdraw from an exhibition match is “not too serious” and he is doing everything he can to be fit for the Australian Open.

The 29-year-old was scheduled to play in the exhibition alongside Novak Djokovic on Thursday but he wrote on Instagram an ultrasound had revealed a grade one strain.

He played his first singles match in 18 months last week at the Brisbane International but said afterwards the first-round defeat had left him in “throbbing” pain.

However, speaking to Australia’s 7News, external on Wednesday, Kyrgios said he “knows his body” and will take precautions so he can appear at the first Grand Slam of the year, which starts in Melbourne on Sunday.

“I’ve still got five days up my sleeve,” said Kyrgios.

“I’m probably not going to serve for the next couple of days, I’ve got a couple of practices scheduled and I’ll do everything I can.

“It’s not too serious. I’ll just take it day by day and give myself the best chance.”