Djokovic withdraws from Paris Masters

Bangla Press Desk: Novak Djokovic will not compete at next week's Paris Masters, the 24-time Grand Slam champion said on Tuesday without giving a reason for pulling out of the 1000-level event.

"Dear Paris, unfortunately I'll not compete at this year's @RolexPMasters," Djokovic wrote on X.

"I have amazing memories and great success over the years, especially being able to conquer the title 7 times. Hope to see you next year. Merci."

The Serb fell in the semi-finals of the Shanghai Masters to eventual champion Valentin Vacherot of Monaco earlier this month. He battled through a leg injury and heat exhaustion in his grueling Round of 16 victory over Jaume Munar.

Djokovic, 38, recently said he had no plans to retire from tennis and cited NBA great LeBron James, former NFL player Tom Brady and veteran footballer Cristiano Ronaldo as inspirations to extend his career.

His last Grand Slam win came in 2023, but he reached the semis of all four majors this season and is currently ranked number five.

BP/SP