Casper Ruud becomes third notable name to pull out of Wimbledon

While the Norwegian tennis star won the Madrid Masters and reached the Rome Masters quarterfinal, he picked up a knee injury in the process and was unable to defend his Geneva title. Despite the injury, the world No. 16 gave a shot to the French Open - but it didn't go well since he got bounced by Nuno Borges in the second round.

After probably forcing his French Open participation, Ruud decided not to play any tournaments leading up to Wimbledon. In the meantime, the former world No. 2 has started practicing again but doesn't want to risk anything by playing best-of-five-set grass matches. Instead, he plans to return to action on the clay courts of Gstaad the week after Wimbledon.

“He’s back on the court, and things are going well, but it looks like playing best-of-five sets is unfortunately a bit too soon. Gstaad will be next for Casper now,” manager Tina Falster told NTB.

Ruud is the third top-30 player to withdraw from Wimbledon

World No. 15 Arthur Fils hasn't played since giving a walkover to Andrey Rublev in the French Open third round due to a back injury. The Frenchman also pulled out of The Championships.

Another notable name that won't compete at The All England Club is 26th-ranked Sebastian Korda. The American also hasn't taken part in any tournaments since the French Open.

“Unfortunately no Wimbledon for me this year. Stress fracture in my shin during the clay. Been a tough 12 months, but better days ahead," Korda announced on Instagram.

Wimbledon is starting in eight days and the tournament could easily be hit with more withdrawals.