Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from the Paris Masters due to a virus, the world number one said on Tuesday.
The 23-year-old, who defeated Carlos Alcaraz in the final of the Six Kings Slam exhibition event to bag the $6 million title in Saudi Arabia on October 20, has been replaced in the draw by Frenchman Arthur Cazaux.
"I'm very disappointed to tell you that I am not able to play here at this tournament. I came here very early to prepare and then I felt sick," Sinner said in a video message shared by the organizers.
"I have a virus at the moment, which will pass in the next two or three days. Body-wise, I am not ready to compete.
"I am very sorry for that. I will see you guys (in Paris) next year. Hopefully, it will be a great year. And this year – without me. Hopefully, I'll see you next year."
Last week, the 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic also withdrew from the Paris Masters, the final 1000-event of the year.
The Paris indoor tournament runs from October 28 to November 3.
George Russell showed he was the man to beat by setting the fastest time for Mercedes in final practice for the Italian Grand Prix on Saturday, with Formula One title rival and former teammate Lewis Hamilton second for home favourites Ferrari.
Five-time Tour de France champion Tadej Pogacar has ended his season early to focus on recovery after last weekend's crash during Vuelta a Espana left him with injuries that required surgery, his team UAE Team Emirates-XRG said on Saturday.
Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz underlined his status as the man to beat at the US Open with a ruthless 6-3 6-4 6-1 victory over China's Wu Yibing on Friday as he reached the fourth round and continued his bid for a third title at Flushing Meadows.
UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan held a special meeting for the UAE youth handball team and its staff to honour them for qualifying for the 2027 IHF Men's Junior World Championship.
Two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka continued her imposing run at the US Open with a composed 6-3 6-4 victory over Kamilla Rakhimova in the third round on Friday, extending her bid for a fifth Grand Slam title.
Welcome to Pinoy Bulletin, your go-to source for staying informed about important announcements, exciting group activities, community events, and job opportunities!