Geneva - Roger Federer has withdrawn from next week's Barclays Championships as well as the March 6-8 Davis Cup tie against the US with a lingering back injury.

"I'm disappointed to announce that I am withdrawing from both Dubai and the Davis Cup tie in the United States," the world number two said on his website.

"This was a hard decision to make as I am missing not only one of my favorite events on tour in Dubai but I am also missing out on an opportunity to help my country try and move on to the next round of Davis Cup."

The 27-year-old, who has been remarkably injury-free during his standout career, said that in order to try and be ready for Masters 1000 events in California and Florida next month, he would not play.

"After injuring my back last fall, I did not have enough time to strengthen it completely.

"As a precautionary measure, I will use the next few weeks to make sure the back injury is fully rehabilitated and I am ready for the rest of the 2009 season."

The pullout comes as a blow to both events, with the Dubai tournament under fire for the United Arab Emirates' refusal to grant a visa to Israeli Shahar Peer, who had the right of entry into this week's WTA women's event at the Aviation club.

The Davis Cup tie with the US in Alabama has already sold out, likely on the strength of the Federer appearances for Switzerland. (dpa)