Daijiworld Media Network - Paris

Paris, Oct 22: Tennis legend Novak Djokovic announced on Tuesday that he will not participate in the upcoming Paris Masters, expressing regret over the decision but assuring fans he hopes to return next year.

The 38-year-old Serbian star has not played a professional match since his semi-final defeat at the Shanghai Masters earlier this month, where he lost to then-world No. 204 Valentin Vacherot. Djokovic appeared to struggle physically during that match, vomiting courtside and requiring multiple medical timeouts.

“Dear Paris, unfortunately I’ll not compete at this year’s tournament,” Djokovic wrote on social media. “I have amazing memories and great success over the years, especially being able to conquer the title seven times. Hope to see you next year.”

Just last week, Djokovic was forced to retire midway through his third-place match against American Taylor Fritz at the Six Kings Slam exhibition in Saudi Arabia.

Djokovic, who holds 24 Grand Slam titles, has been selective about his tournaments in recent years as he focuses on extending his record and preserving his form for major championships.

Meanwhile, world No. 10 Holger Rune also confirmed his withdrawal from the Paris Masters after undergoing surgery on his Achilles tendon. The Dane took to Instagram to share, “Surgery went really well... I will keep you updated on my recovery. But now rest and heal.”

The Paris Masters is scheduled to take place from October 27 to November 2.