Injured Federer Pulls Out

Source: Agencies  |   2009-2-19  |     NEWSPAPER EDITION

SWISS world No.2 Roger Federer has withdrawn from next month's Davis Cup first-round tie against the United States due to a back injury.

"Unfortunately I have to announce that I will not be taking part in either the Dubai tournament of the Davis Cup tie in the States," Federer said in a statement on Tuesday. "It was a very difficult decision for me because it means I will miss not only one of my favorite events on the Tour, but also the chance along with my team mates to reach the next round of the Davis Cup."

Federer said he had picked up the injury last year and had not had enough time to build up the affected muscles.

He played in the Australian Open in January and reached the final which he lost to world No.1 Rafa Nadal.

"I will now use the coming weeks for further rehabilitation, to be certain that I am fully fit again and ready for the rest of the season."