Back Problems to Keep McEnroe Out of French

John McEnroe withdrew Tuesday from next week’s French Open, saying he had recurring back problems.

Two weeks ago, in an exhibition, McEnroe was beaten easily by Jose-Louis Clerc of Argentina, 6-4, 6-2. Then McEnroe pulled out of the Italian Open.

Organizers of the $4.5-million French Open said they were told that McEnroe had injured his back when he stepped on a ball in the match against Clerc.