Federer plans to skip clay events

Roger Federer is planning to take a seven-week break after winning back-to-back Indian Wells and Miami titles for just the second time in his career.

After his Miami Open victory over Rafael Nadal earlier today, 35-year-old Federer told ESPN he needed to rest.

“I’m not 24 anymore so things have changed in a big way and I probably won’t play any clay court events except the French,” he said.

“I need a rest. My body needs healing.”

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After winning the first two ATP Masters 1000 events of the season, Federer looks set to skip the next three (Monte Carlo, Madrid and Rome). The French Open starts on May 22.

Currently ranked No.4, and No.1 in the Race to London, Federer hopes to enter his favoured grass court swing in full fitness. He also said chasing the No.1 ranking was not a priority.

“I want to stay healthy and enjoy myself. When I’m feeling good I can produce tennis like this,” he said.

“I’ll focus on the French and the grass and the hard courts after that – that is the key for me.

“If I were to reach No.1 again, that would be great, but I feel that I’m a long way away.”