Federer pulls out of ATP Masters final due to back injury

Switzerland’s Roger Federer pulled out of the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals championship match against Serbia’s Novak Djokovic at London’s O2 Arena on Sunday due to a back problem.

“I am sorry to announce that I cannot play the finals tonight versus Novak. I hurt my back late in the match yesterday against Stan (Wawrinka). I am very disappointed and I hope to be feeling better soon,” Federer said in a post on his Facebook page.

Federer defeated Wawrinka 46, 75, 76 (86) in the semifinals on Saturday in two hours and 49 minutes.

The 33yearold Federer, who has won a record 17 Grand Slam titles and six Masters titles, did not wrap up his press obligations until 1:00 a.m.

“It’s been an extremely difficult decision because I love playing in London and the (Barclays) ATP World Tour Finals have been an absolute highlight of my career. Unfortunately, my back problem does not allow me to play right now. I hope all tennis fans and those involved in the event will understand,” Federer said.

The Swiss star has won the yearend indoor event on six occasions 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2010 and 2011.

Federer did not show up at the practice court he had reserved for Sunday and rumors began to spread at the O2 that he might not be able to play.

Djokovic, the world No. 1, has won three consecutive titles at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals, a feat last accomplished in the 1980s by Ivan Lendl, and four championships overall.

The Serbian won his first Masters title in 2008 against Russia’s Nikolay Davydenko and then defeated Federer in 2012 and Spain’s Rafael Nadal last year in the final.

Djokovic is now scheduled to play a pro set first to eight against former Wimbledon champ Andy Murray of Scotland, the ATP said.

Murray will then team up with retired American legend John McEnroe in a doubles exhibition against retired British star Tim Henman and Australia’s Pat Cash, the 1987 Wimbledon champion.

In the doubles championship match, Americans Bob and Mike Bryan beat Brazil’s Marcelo Melo and Croatia’s Ivan Dodig 67 (75), 62, 107 to win their first title at the yearend tournament since 2009.

The American twins are the best doubles team in tennis history, with 103 titles.