Fit-again Roger Federer defends Paris pull-out

A newly fit Roger Federer yesterday defended his decision to pull out of the French Open because of a back injury, rubbishing suggestions it had anything to do with the wet Paris weather

Stuttgart (Germany): A newly fit Roger Federer yesterday defended his decision to pull out of the French Open because of a back injury, rubbishing suggestions it had anything to do with the wet Paris weather.

Roger Federer

The Swiss star and World No 3, who turns 35 in August, this week plays on the Stuttgart grass for the first time as he ramps up his preparations for Wimbledon in June-July.

"It's the grass-court season now, that's huge for me," said the seven-time Wimbledon champion.

"I was surprised to hear that some thought I pulled out because of the (Paris) weather. That (rain) had nothing to do with it — either you are strong enough or you are not. I knew I made the right decision" said Federer

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