(CNN)The speculation is over: Roger Federer will not play at this year’s French Open.
The 18-time Major champion made the announcement on his website on Monday, a week before the start of the tournament.
“I’ve been working very hard both on and off the court over the past month, but in order to try and play on the ATP World Tour for many years, I think it’s best to skip the clay court season this year and focus on the grass – and preparing for the hard court season,” wrote the 35-year-old Federer on the website.
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The ATP is the association of tennis professionals.
“The start to the year has been magical for me, but I have to recognize that planning will be key to my longevity. Therefore, my team and I came to the conclusion that playing just one event on clay tennis and physical preparation for the rest of the season was not in my best interest.
“I will miss the French fans who have always been so supportive and I look forward to seeing them at Roland Garros next year.”
This isn’t Federer’s first long absence. He missed the final six months of the 2016 season with a knee injury.
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Federer, who started this season by winning the Australian Open, Indian Wells and Miami Open, has won the French Open once in 2009.
Federer’s withdrawal further cements nine-time champion Rafael Nadal as favorites to win Roland Garros. Nadal is unbeaten on clay this season after winning the Madrid Open title on Sunday.
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