Defending champion Djokovic, who beat Grigor Dimitrov in the 2023 final, has been joined by Sebastian Korda in withdrawing from the Paris Masters.

But the ATP Masters 1,000 tournament still has a very strong field, with the likes of star names Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz involved.

Fellow high-profile players Alexander Zverev, Daniil Medvedev, Taylor Fritz and Dimitrov are also set to take part.

Felix Auger-Aliassime confirms Paris Masters withdrawal

But there is another name missing from the event due to injury, with Felix Auger-Aliassime confirming his withdrawal because of a back problem.

“I tried to give myself every last opportunity to be fit to play in Paris but unfortunately it wasn’t meant to be this year,” Auger-Aliassime wrote on X.

READ MORE: Paris Masters 2024: How to watch, prize money, dates and everything you need to know

“After experiencing some pain in my back during Basel, I did some testing and attempts to practice before concluding that I wouldn’t be ready to compete in Paris at the level I’d hope for.

“That being said, it’s a bittersweet ending to the season and I’m going to do everything in my power to recoup mentally and physically for a strong start in 2025. We keep going. Thank you as always for all of your kind words and support.”

Felix Auger-Aliassime joins Novak Djokovic in Paris Masters withdrawal

Auger-Aliassime was eyeing a strong run in Basel earlier this week, but his competition was brought to an end by Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in the last 16.

The Canadian was then heading for a very tricky opening-round tie with Ben Shelton at the Paris Masters, followed by a dreaded clash with Sinner in the second round.

But the world number 19 has instead opted to withdraw from Paris, in a bid to fully focus on his recovery from his back issue.

READ MORE: What Jannik Sinner has been requesting as he tests out new racket ahead of Paris Masters

The Paris Masters will take place at the Accor Arena in 2024 for the very last time, with the event moving to La Defense Arena in 2025.

Djokovic boasts a stunning seven Paris Masters titles, but unfortunately the Serbian star cannot extend that record this time around.

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