Roger Federer will sit out the French Open and the rest of the clay-court season.

The 35-year-old made the decision in an attempt to continue playing on the ATP Tour ‘for many years to come’ and will now prepare for the grass and hard-court seasons, which begin in June.

‘I need to recognise that scheduling will be the key to my longevity,’ said Federer, who has a record 18 Grand Slam titles, including one from the French Open.

‘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.’

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