Seven-time champion Novak Djokovic on Tuesday pulled out of the eight-man ATP Finals in Turin. The 37-year-old Serb, who beat Jannik Sinner in the 2023 final to become the most successful player at thetournament, cited an injury for his absence from the week-long event which starts on 10 November.
"I was really looking forward to being there," said Djokovic on social media.
"But due to ongoing injury I won't be playing next week
"Apologies to those who were planning to see me. Wishing all the players a great tournament. See you soon!"
Djokovic's withdrawal confirmed the participation of Casper Ruud, Alex de Minaur and Andrey Rublev.
Jannik Sinner, winner of the Australian Open and the US Open this year, will head the seedings, Alexander Zverev, the victor at the Paris Masters on 3 November, will be second seed. Carlos Alcaraz, who claimed the French Open and Wimbledon during the spring and summer, will be third seed.
Question marks were raised about Djokovic's presence in Italy as soon as he pulled out of the Paris Masters.
He failed to give precise reasons for his absence from the event in the French capital which he had won seven times.
Djokovic will finish the 2024 season with only the gold medal in the men's singles at the Paris Olympics.
The end of season championships, contested since 1970, is regarded as one of the most prestigious trophies on the senior circuit.
Stan Smith claimed the inaugural event in Tokyo when it was in a round robin format. Since moving to a round robin and knockout competition, other champions have included Pete Sampras, John McEnroe, Boris Becker, Ivan Lendl and Roger Federer.
