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Murray pulls out of French Open

Andy Murray pulled out of the recent ATP Tour event in Rome © Getty Images

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Andy Murray has pulled out of the French Open due to an ongoing back problem, the Scot confirmed on Tuesday evening.

Murray, the current world No. 2, revealed last week that he would have a decision to make about his participation at Roland Garros - after pulling out of the Internazionali BNL d'Italia in Rome due to a lower back problem.

And, after taking time to let the injury settle and then seeking the advice of doctors earlier this week, the Scot has decided not to play in the year's second grand slam.

"It's a really tough decision and I love playing in Paris, but after seeking medical advice, I am not fit to compete," Murray told the BBC.

Murray will now focus on being fully fit and ready for Wimbledon at the end of June, where he will hope to improve on last year's result - where he lost in the final to Roger Federer.

Speaking last week, Murray's mother Judy suggested that the 26-year-old would forsake the French Open in order to be in the best possible shape for the grass court season.

"Often you pick up niggles when you change surfaces," Judy Murray noted. "Each surface brings its own problems and challenges. This back issue has been rumbling for a week or so.

"It's not so easy on the clay. There is a lot more twisting and turning. He needs to be cautious and I'm sure Wimbledon will be his priority."

Goran Ivanisevic, a former winner at the All England Club, recommended Murray skip the Paris event in order to be ready for a tournament he has a far better chance of winning.

"He's not the favourite in the French, a lot of guys can beat him there," Ivanisevic said. "He can get ready for Wimbledon.

"His chance this year is huge and I don't think he wants to risk it, playing in the French and injuring himself more."

The French Open begins on May 26.

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