Black Tennis Pros

WIMBLEDON, England (AP) -- French Open semifinalist Gael Monfils withdrew from Wimbledon before the first round Monday because of inflammation in his right shoulder.

The 22-year-old Frenchman was replaced in the singles draw by Serbia's Ilia Bozoljac, who was due to play Australian Chris Guccione later Monday.

Monfils said he risked long-term injury if he played because the inflammation has been bothering him for a long time.

"I think now with more experience I'm sad, but still, I know it's the right decision,'' Monfils said. "So I stay confident in my decision and I'm not worried about it -- because I know it will be a couple weeks, but still will be good after.''

The 26th-ranked Monfils, who lost to Federer in the French Open semis, could have faced Federer in the third round at Wimbledon.