Novak Djokovic set for rankings drop after deciding to skip Paris Masters

Because the Serb is the defending champion, he will drop 1000 ranking points by not appearing in Paris, which could see him ranked outside the top five when the new season kicks off.

Djokovic confirmed in a statement on Wednesday that he will not be appearing at the final Masters event of the season, a tournament he has won seven times.

"Unfortunately I won't be playing the Paris Masters this year," Djokovic posted on social media.

"I have a lot of great memories, winning seven titles and I hope to be back with you next year. Sorry to everyone who was hoping to see me there."

Djokovic and his team have not yet commented on his reason for skipping the tournament. He has been dealing with a knee issue throughout the year, but has also mentioned that his focus is on a more streamlined schedule, prioritizing Grand Slam events.

"He is the defending champion â- but he is 37 years old if I am not mistaken," tournament director Cedric Pioline told Eurosport France.

"He has had a complicated year physically since he had a meniscus operation just before Wimbledon. He won the Olympic Games, it is his only title but that was the objective, so objective achieved.

"I think he has reached a stage in his career where he manages his schedule as his body asks him to manage it."

Djokovic is also in danger of missing out on a place in the ATP Finals as he is currently ranked sixth and could get overtaken in Paris, with only the top eight qualifying for the tournament.

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