Why did Jannik Sinner withdraw from Paris Masters 2024? Everything we know about Italian's struggle with intestinal virus
In a surprising turn of events, top seed Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from the 2024 Paris Masters, leaving fans disappointed. The Italian was expected to make a strong run, especially as he was coming on the back of a title win in Shanghai.
Sinner also participated in the Six Kings Slam—an exhibition event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia—before heading to Paris. He joined Carlos Alcaraz, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, and Holger Rune in the Gulf country and clinched a memorable victory over his rival Alcaraz in the final, securing an impressive $6 million paycheck.
The World No. 1 arrived in the French Capital with his sights set on an eighth title this season but fate had other plans. In a message shared via the tournament’s official social media, he revealed he had to withdraw due to an intestinal virus, expressing disappointment over the unexpected setback.
"Hello, guys. Jannik here. I am very disappointed to tell you that I am not able to play here this tournament. I came very early to prepare and fell sick. I am having a virus at the moment, which is gonna pass in the next 2-3 days. So body wise I am not ready to compete," he said.
Sinner apologized to his fans for not being able to compete, adding that he would be back next year and hoped it would be as successful as this season has been in terms of performance.
"I am very very sorry for that but see you guys very soon next year and hopefully it's gonna be a great year," he said.
Later, during a press conference, Jannik Sinner elaborated on his condition, revealing that he felt unwell during his first practice session at the Paris Masters. After consulting with doctors, he learned that a virus was responsible for his symptoms, leading to his decision.
"After the first practice session, I really didn't felt good. You know, I also talked with the doctor on Sunday, you know, it's a virus, what makes you feel better in three, four days," he said.
He mentioned that although he feels better than he did a few days ago, he still isn’t at 100% before adding that it wouldn’t make sense for him to compete if he can't perform at his best.
"Today I feel better already a little bit, but the body is not ready to compete and feel still very, very weak. It doesn't make sense to go on court and trying to compete for this tournament," Jannik Sinner said.
Jannik Sinner's next destination is ATP Finals
Jannik Sinner is set to lead the field at the ATP Finals in Turin, running from November 10–17. Entering as the top seed, he has already clinched the Year-End No. 1 spot, boasting an outstanding 65-6 record this season.
During a press conference at the Paris Masters, Sinner said that after taking some time to recuperate, he will begin practicing with his primary aim being to lift the trophy at the ATP Finals in Turin.
"Now for sure the most important part is to recover and getting back physically 100%. You know, maybe the next three, four days, I feel better and then I can start again to practice, and of course the main goal is going to be Turin," he said.
"But, you know, now at the moment, much more important to see how I feel in the next days, and then hopefully I'm going to be ready for Turin," he added.
Last year, Jannik Sinner reached the final of the ATP Finals. However, his hopes were dashed by Novak Djokovic, who claimed his record-setting seventh title at the event.