World number four Roger Federer will sit out the French Open and the rest of the clay-court season.
Federer, an 18-time Grand Slam winner, says he made the decision in order to “try and play on the ATP World Tour for many years to come”.
The 35-year-old added he will now prepare for the grass and hard-court seasons, which began in June.
“I need to recognise that scheduling will be the key to my longevity,” he said.
“Thus, my team and I concluded 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.”
Unfortunately, I won’t be playing @rolandgarros this year. I’ll miss my fans in France, but appreciate your support https://t.co/vRcb4SvQga
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) May 15, 2017
