A piece of floating bone was removed from his left knee by Florida surgeon Dr Selsnick, who was repairing a slightly torn cartilage that had been causing inflammation in the joint.

Philippoussis, 24, was not available for comment after his third round of surgery in 18 months. His management company, Octagon, indicated that the Victorian was eyeing the French Open, at Roland Garros from May 28, as his possible comeback tournament.

Coach Peter McNamara predicted Philippoussis would return to competition in good order following the arthroscopy.

"Mark is very disappointed, but we are optimistic he can return to match play as he did in February, winning the Memphis title in his tournament back after surgery," said McNamara.

Philippoussis has been plagued by knee soreness since tearing a cartilage when leading Pete Sampras a set to love in the Wimbledon quarter-finals in 1999.

The Australian had surgery in New York 18 months ago and again in Melbourne in December. That procedure forced him out of the Australian Open.

He returned to the circuit last month to claim the Kroger St Jude title before struggling through San Jose, Indian Wells and Key Biscayne as swelling increased in the knee. An MRI scan revealed a cartilage tear and floating debris.