Paris 2024 Olympics: Tennis world No.1 Jannik Sinner out of Games due to illness: "It is a huge disappointment"

World No.1 tennis player Jannik Sinner announced his withdrawal from the Olympic Games Paris 2024 on Wednesday (24 July) due to illness.

The reigning Australian Open champion said he began feeling unwell in recent days, and was diagnosed with tonsillitis. He called missing the Games, which were set to be his Olympic debut, "a huge disappointment."

"I am saddened to inform you that unfortunately I will not be able to participate in the Paris Olympic Games," the 22-year-old said in a post on X written in Italian.

He continued: "After a good week of clay training I started to feel unwell. I spent a couple of days resting and during a visit the doctor found tonsillitis and strongly advised me against playing."

"It was one of my main goals for this season. I couldn't wait to have the honour of representing my country in this very important event. Good luck to all the Italian athletes who I will support from home."

Sinner's withdrawal should mean that world No.2 Novak Djokovic will slot into the top spot of the men's singles draw. The official draws are set to be made Thurssday (25 July) at Stade-Roland Garros.

Sinner was also due to be the top-seeded doubles team alongside Lorenzo Musetti.