World No. 2 Andy Murray has pulled out of Roland Garros with a back injury.
"It's a really tough decision and I love playing in Paris, but after seeking medical advice, I am not fit to compete," Murray said in a statement. “Apologies to the organizers and thanks to everyone for the messages of support. Now my complete focus is on getting back on the court as soon as possible."
After retiring from his opening match in Rome last week, the U.S. Open champion revealed that the lower back injury has been bothering him since 2011; he said it hampers him most when playing on clay.
"You can have the injections," Murray said in Rome. "They can help a bit with pain and they can take some of the inflammation away, but that also didn't make me feel 100 percent, and I want to feel 100 percent. ... Some days are better than others. In the last couple of years it's been the biggest issue for me. The quicker courts help, the lower bounces, a bit more pace off the surface, that helps."
The Guardian reported that it will be the first time in 19 years that there will be no British player in the men's draw in Paris.
Murray is hoping to return next month on grass at Queen's Club.