Roger Federer has been forced to pull out of his next two tournaments because of a knee problem.

The former world number one had been due to compete at the Rotterdam Open next week and then the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships towards the end of the month.

However, the 17-time Grand Slam winner has now withdrawn from both events, having undergone surgery to repair a torn meniscus that he suffered just after the recent Australian Open.

"I am so disappointed to have to miss Rotterdam and Dubai as they are two of my favourite tournaments on the ATP World Tour," Federer said in a statement on his official website.

"While this is an unfortunate setback, I feel grateful that up until now I have remained mostly healthy throughout my career. My doctors have ensured me that the surgery was a success and with proper rehabilitation, I will be able to return to the Tour soon."

The 34-year-old is expected to return to action at some stage in March.