Roger Federer has officially withdrawn from this month’s French Open to concentrate on the upcoming grass and hard court swing of the season.
The 18-time grand slam champion hasn’t played a competitive match since winning the Miami Masters in March, his third title of 2017. This year the Swiss player has won 19 out of 20 matches played and clinched a record 18th grand slam title at the Australian Open in January.
After his strong start to the season, Federer confirmed that he will take a rest from all clay-court events prior to the French Open to recover. Last year the 35-year-old was forced to end his season early due to a knee injury. In 2016 he was also hindered by a back injury, which forced him out of Roland Garros.
“I need a rest. My body needs healing – you’ll probably see me at the French again.” He said earlier this year.
Despite recent indications pointing towards a French Open showing, Federer has now officially withdrawn from the tournament. It will be the first time in his competitive career that he has missed the same major tournament two years in a row.
“Regrettably, I’ve decided not to participate in the French Open. I’ve been working really hard, both on and off the court, during the last month but in order to try and play on the ATP World Tour for many years to come, I feel it’s best to skip the clay court season this year and prepare for the grass and hard court seasons.” Federer said in a statement.
The decision has been influenced by Federer’s desire to prolong his career. In the wake of his recent injury setbacks, the 35-year-old is being selective about what tournaments he plays. In a recent interview with Swiss daily Tages-Anzeiger, Federer hopes to prolong his career for as long as ‘his team and family are happy.’
“The start to the year has been magical for me but I need to recognize that scheduling will be the key to my longevity moving forward. Thus, my team and I concluded today that playing just one event on clay was not in the best interest of my tennis and physical preparation for the remainder of the season. I will miss the French fans, who have always been so supportive and I look forward to seeing them at Roland Garros next year.” He explained about missing Roland Garros this year.
Federer is a five-time finalist at the French Open, winning the title in 2009. His withdrawal means that Rafael Nadal, who is bidding to win a record tenth title in Paris, will receive a top-four seeding in the draw.
This year’s French Open will start on May 22nd.
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