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Former world number one Marat Safin tumbled out of the first round of the Swedish Open 6-3 7-6 against Spaniard Nicolas Almagro and said he was looking forward to a life free from racquets and balls.

Safin, who will retire at the end of the year, is scheduled to play another eight tournaments.

"I'm tired of the tour, tired of staying at hotels and tired of travelling... I've had enough now," the Russian said after losing the second-set tie-break 8-6 on the clay in Bastad.

Asked if he would be interested in a coaching career, Safin replied: "I am tired of everything that has to do with racquets and balls. I want to do something completely different."

Safin has a 3-0 losing record against Almagro, all of the defeats having come on clay.

Tommy Robredo, another Spaniard, began his quest for a third Swedish Open title by easily beating Australian Peter Luczak 6-2 6-3 in a second-round match.

Robredo, winner of the tournament last year and in 2006, faces Russian Teimuraz Gabashvili in the last eight.

Swede Robin Soderling beat Belgian Kristof Vliegen 6-2 6-3, also in the second round.

Reuters