Roger Federer Injury Update: Tennis Star Will Not Play at 2016 French Open

Roger Federer announced Thursday that he's not going to play in the 2016 French Open, as he continues to work on his fitness after suffering a back injury.

Federer confirmed the decision on his official Facebook page. Christopher Clarey of the New York Times noted that it's the first time since the 1999 U.S. Open that the Swiss superstar won't be in a Grand Slam draw.

Here's the complete statement from the 17-time major champion:

Federer withdrew from the Madrid Open earlier this month after suffering a back issue during a practice session. He returned for the Italian Open but still didn't look all the way back to full strength in a third-round loss to Dominic Thiem.

Injuries have started to become a much bigger concern for the longtime ATP Tour stalwart. He suffered a knee injury earlier in the year that required surgery while preparing a bath for his kids. He's only played two tournaments since returning and is now sidelined again.

All the records he's set during his illustrious career are a testament to his durability. His absence at Roland Garros will end a remarkable streak of 65 straight major appearances.

Tennis Connected pointed out that Federer's longtime rival, Rafael Nadal, moves up to the No. 4 seed with the former's decision. It should provide him with a more favorable path to the business end of the tournament.

Although missing one of the year's top events is never ideal, the 34-year-old veteran is picking the right time to make sure he's healthy. He's won the French Open just once, compared to at least four titles at the other Grand Slam tournaments.

Combine that with a busy schedule ahead in the coming months, which includes two other majors and the Summer Olympics in Rio, and it makes sense to rest with the hope that the pain subsides. 

Federer now has about six weeks before Wimbledon, a tournament he's won a record-tying seven times, kicks off June 27.