Ottawa Senators captain Daniel Alfredsson will not play for Sweden at the 2009 World Hockey Championships.

Alfredsson informed Swedish team officials earlier this week that he's not feeling 100 per cent physically and he would prefer to pass on the tournament this year.

Alfredsson was unable to participate in last year's tournament because of a torn MCL in his knee that he suffered in April. He last suited up for Team Sweden in this event in 2005 -- during the NHL lockout.

Senators general manager Bryan Murray has said that he would not stand in the way of any of his players participating in the tournament.

"I've never discouraged that. I think they should go in most cases," said Murray.