ANDRE AGASSI has opted out of the 1997 Australian Open, saying he needs to rest. The former Wimbledon champion, who won the 1995 Australian Open title, plans to play in the Compaq Grand Slam Cup next week before taking a two month break from tennis.

"It's disappointing that Andre will not be playing, but he clearly feels he needs some time off," said tournament director Paul McNamee. "I'm encouraged that Andre considers this a one off and intends to be back for 1998."

Official entries for the Australian Open close on Monday. McNamee had earlier said he expected all the top 20 men and women players to contest the tournament in January.