Roger Federer withdraws from French Open

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Roger Federer is withdrawing from the French Open in the Round of 16 to prioritize his health. 

The 20-time Grand Slam champion, participating in his first major since the 2020 Australian Open last January, faced Dominik Koepfer in a grueling four-set match Saturday. Federer defeated Koepfer 7-6, 6-7, 7-6, 7-5 in the three-and-a-half-hour match that ended shortly before 1 a.m. Federer said after the match that he would have to evaluate his knee to see if he could continue to play in the tournament. On Sunday, he announced his decision.

"After discussions with my team I've decided I will need to pull out of Roland-Garros today," Federer said in a statement. "After two knee surgeries and over a year of rehabilitation it's important that I don't push myself too hard on my road to recovery."

Tournament director Guy Forget offered his support to Federer and wished him the best in his recovery.

"The Roland-Garros tournament is sorry about the withdrawal of Roger Federer, who put up an incredible fight last night," Forget said in a statement. "We were all delighted to see Roger back in Paris, where he played three high-level matches. We wish him all the best for the rest of the season."

No. 9 seed Matteo Berrettini was scheduled to play Federer in the fourth round on Monday and will now advance to the quarterfinals.

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