Novak Djokovic made a statement that included an apology to the fans after deciding not to play at the 2024 Paris Masters.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion's reduced schedule in recent years means his involvement at Masters-1000 events is never certain. Grand Slams and representing Serbia are now his priority.
However, Djokovic also plays some exhibitions. The most recent was at the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia alongside Rafael Nadal, Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, and Holger Rune.
After losing to Jannik Sinner in the semifinal, Djokovic played his last match against Nadal. The pair shared an extraordinary rivalry that some consider the best in tennis history, although Nadal says Roger Federer is his biggest rival, not Djokovic.
Who each man considers their most significant rival does not change the respect between them. Djokovic paid an emotional tribute after beating Nadal in their final meeting, while the Spaniard thanked him for everything.
The Serbian also promised to attend Nadal's final event at the Davis Cup Finals next month. Carlos Alcaraz is expected to play doubles with his older compatriot after they did so at the Olympics.
It is unclear whether Djokovic intends to play at any further tournaments before the end of the season. The 37-year-old will not defend the title he won last year at the Paris Masters or appear on home soil at the Belgrade Open the following week.
Djokovic may not qualify for the year-end ATP Finals because of his decision not to play in Paris. He is currently sixth but could fall outside the Top 8, depending on the results of others.
But the Olympic gold medalist may not even play at the year-end event if he qualifies. Djokovic previously indicated that he was done with tournaments like the ATP Finals, meaning it is possible he would skip the event in Turin.
Although Djokovic regularly skips Masters-1000 tournaments, the 10-time Australian Open champion still made a statement on social media apologizing to fans who were excited to watch him play at this year's Paris Masters.
"Unfortunately, I won't be playing @rolexparismasters this year. Sorry to everyone who was hoping to see me play there. Wishing all the players, sponsors, organizers, and fans a great tournament. I have a lot of great memories winning seven titles there and hope to be back with you next year."
The tournament organizers in Paris will undoubtedly hope that Djokovic plays again next year due to the interest he brings to the event, but the Serbian's reduced schedule at this late stage of his career means it cannot be guaranteed.
Fans in Paris might have hoped that the 2024 edition of the event being the last one at the Accor Arena, before moving to a bigger venue next year, would entice Djokovic due to his memories there. But that was not the case.
Although Djokovic's absence is disappointing, the 2024 Paris Masters should still be a great event with players like Sinner and Alcaraz on the entry list.
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