Andy Murray withdraws from French Open with back injury

LONDON, May 21 (UPI) -- Britain's Andy Murray, the world's second-ranked tennis player, announced Tuesday he would skip the upcoming French Open due to a back injury.

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

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

Murray retired with the injury last week in a match against Spaniard Marcel Granollers in the second round of the Italian Masters.

The 28-year-old will miss the French Open after making it to the finals in each of his past three Grand Slam events, including a win over world No. 1 Novak Djokovic at last year's U.S. Open.

He fell to the Serbian superstar in the final of the Australian Open in January.