Federer withdraws from Madrid Masters

Seventeen-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer withdrew from the Madrid Masters on Monday citing a back injury.

However, the world number three remains hopeful that he will be fit to play in the Rome Masters next week as part of his preparation for the French Open later this month.

"There's no feeling that I can practise so at this point I don't want to take more chances, as I know I wont be fully ready for Wednesday," said Federer.

"I want to play it safe, rest up and get ready for Rome, that's the schedule now."

Federer had taken a late decision to play in Madrid after missing nearly three months of the season due to knee surgery.