Nick Kyrgios won’t play at Monte Carlo Open after gruelling start to 2017 season

KEY BISCAYNE, FL — MARCH 31: Nick Kyrgios of Australia reacts in his match against Roger Federer of Switzerland in the semi finals at Crandon Park Tennis Center on March 31, 2017 in Key Biscayne, Florida. Julian Finney/Getty Images/AFP == FOR NEWSPAPERS, INTERNET, TELCOS & TELEVISION USE ONLY ==

NICK Kyrgios has followed Roger Federer’s lead in opting out of the Monte Carlo Open as the European claycourt season starts tomorrow.

Fatigued emotionally and physically from a gruelling schedule since January’s Australian Open, Kyrgios has withdrawn from the rich Monaco event.

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Like the surging Federer, Kyrgios has been drained by the rigours of a productive run which features two wins over world No 2 Novak Djokovic, three semi-final finishes and two successful Davis Cup ties.

Unfortunately I won't be competing in Monaco as planned. I'm working hard to be ready for Estoril which will be my first clay court event.

— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) April 14, 2017

“Unfortunately I won’t be competing in Monaco as planned,” Kyrgios tweeted.

“I’m working hard to be ready for Estoril which will be my first clay court event.”

Kyrgios hinted in Brisbane last week he was reconsidering plans to contest Monte Carlo, citing fatigue.

Kyrgios, 21, boasts a provisional world ranking of No 14, one shy of his career-best mark.

Nick Kyrgios starred in Australia’s Davis Cup win over the United States in Brisbane. Picture: AAPSource:AAP

Australian Open champion Federer has decided to contest only one lead-up event to next month’s French Open as he focuses on Wimbledon and then the US Open.

The Swiss star has unwound an incredible start to the season with victories at the Australian Open, Indian Wells and Miami Open.

Frenchman Gael Monfils is also another notable Monte Carlo absentee, although world No 1 Andy Murray and Djokovic are expected to compete after suffering elbow soreness.

Queenslander Bernard Tomic is likely to be Australia’s sole main draw singles contender.

Originally published as Tired Kyrgios to skip claycourt opener