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'Did he just turn up and take the money?'

Controversy surrounds Nicolas Almagro's withdrawal from the Australian Open after the Spanish player retired just four games into his first match.

Trailing 0-4 in the first set, Almagro pulled out of his match with Jeremy Cardy on Monday because of a calf injury, pocketing $50,000 ($12,500 per game).

The withdrawal drew criticism from Australian tennis great and commentator Todd Woodbridge, who questioned whether Almagro had only turned up for the money.

"Some questions need to be asked there," Woodbridge said.

Almagro in action. Image: Getty

"Doesn't look like he worked too hard, did he just turn up and take the money?

"I think they're questions the ATP are looking at, perhaps the grand slams need to look at too.

"Such big prize money on offer, maybe it was a chance for a lucky loser to have a better opportunity."

Almagro fired back in his press conference.

"I went to court because I think I can play. I was top 10, I have more than 10 million dollars. I'm not going to play for $50,000. It is not the reason."

Almagro had an MRI scan last week and said he did consider pulling out of the tournament.

"I was trying to play during the week. It was tough. I did an MRI and the result wasn't good. That's it. I couldn't play. I felt the problem again on court and I had to retire.

"I considered it (withdrawing) but I was practising, I didn't feel it during the week. I decided to play today."

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