World number one Novak Djokovic has pulled out of the Paris Masters due to his injured shoulder.
Djokovic saw off fellow Serbian Viktor Troicki 4-6 6-3 6-1 yesterday and was due to face home favourite Jo-Wilfried Tsonga this evening.
But the shoulder joint is still troubling him, forcing him to withdraw.
He wrote on his official Twitter account: "Dear fans and friends, sadly I have to inform you that I have withdrawn from the tournament.
"I have pushed myself to the limit by playing, and after the match yesterday my shoulder got worse.
"For this reason, I have to put my health first and withdraw even though my urges as a professional player are making me want to play until the last drop of energy.
"I am very sorry for all of you who bought tickets and wanted to come to watch me play.
"My season has been long and tiring, I played all of my matches at my highest level, and now my body is aching for recovery. Hoping for your understanding and support."
After missing the Masters event in Shanghai with the shoulder problem, the 24-year-old suffered a recurrence in his semi-final defeat to world number 35 Kei Nishikori in Basle last week.
He opted to play in Paris, though, and pocketed a £996,000 bonus for appearing in his eighth Masters event of the year - an ATP incentive designed to entice the top players to appear.
Djokovic will now focus on his fitness ahead of the ATP World Tour Finals which take place in London, starting on November 20.
The Serbian has had a remarkable year, winning the Australian Open, Wimbledon and US Open crowns as well as five Masters events.
PA
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