Murray withdraws from French Open with back injury

Olympic champion Andy Murray has been forced to withdraw from the French Open with a back injury.

The 26-year-old, who won singles gold and mixed doubles silver with Laura Robson at London 2012, retired from a match in Rome last week with the injury.

And it has proved troublesome enough for Murray, the world number two, to withdraw from the second Grand Slam of the year which starts at Roland Garros on Sunday.

It will be the first Grand Slam tournament Murray has missed since he sat out Wimbledon in 2007, but the Scot hopes to be fit again for the grass-court season at Queen’s on June 10.

"It's been a really tough decision, and I love playing in Paris, but after seeking medical advice I'm not fit to compete," said the US Open champion.

"Apologies to the organisers and thanks to everyone for the messages of support. Now my complete focus is on getting back on the court as soon as possible."

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