Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from the Paris Masters due to a virus, the world number one said on Tuesday.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.
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.
The reigning T20 world champions India will play Japan for the first time in an international match when the teams meet at the Sano International Cricket Ground in Tochigi on September 22, the two cricket boards said on Friday.
Alexander Zverev survived another almighty scare at the US Open as the top seed overcame Frenchman Quentin Halys 6-4 4-6 7-6(3) 6-7(3) 6-3 on Thursday to secure a place in the third round of the Grand Slam.
World number two Elena Rybakina has put on a dominant performance to beat Spain's Jessica Bouzas Maneiro 6-2 6-4 and reach the third round of the US Open on Thursday.
Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios has accepted and served a reduced, one-month suspension under anti-doping rules after testing positive for cocaine at an ATP Tour event in Mallorca, Spain in June, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) said.
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