Thursday 19 May 2016 19:37, UK
Roger Federer has pulled out of the French Open because of a back injury.
Federer, 34, confirmed the news that he would miss his first major since the 1999 US Open - which means he had played 65 consecutive Grand Slams - on his Facebook page.
Just one of Federer's 17 Grand Slam titles came at Roland Garros, in 2009. He has been troubled by injuries and sickness this year and has played in just four tournaments.
Last week, Federer played at the Italian Open and lost to Dominic Thiem in the third round. He withdrew from the Madrid Open the previous week because of back pain.
"I regret to announce that I have made the decision not to play in this year's French Open. I have been making steady progress with my overall fitness, but I am still not 100% and feel I might be taking an unnecessary risk by playing in this event before I am really ready," wrote the world No 3.
"This decision was not easy to make, but I took it to ensure I could play the remainder of the season and help to extend the rest of my career.
"I remain as motivated and excited as ever and my plan is to achieve the highest level of fitness before returning to the ATP World Tour for the upcoming grass court season.
"I am sorry for my fans in Paris but I very much look forward to returning to Roland Garros in 2017."
