Jannik Sinner has announced his withdrawal from the 2024 Olympics with a heartbreaking statement after being diagnosed with tonsillitis. The world No. 1 was set to continue a strong year by representing Italy at the Paris Games, but doctors have urged him against competing in a month hampered by illness.

Sinner hasn’t played since his Wimbledon quarter-final defeat against Daniil Medvedev , during which he left the court and later confirmed he was unwell.

But while claiming that he had enjoyed a positive week of training on the clay, the 22-year-old will be a significant absentee from Roland Garros.

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A social media statement on Wednesday read: “I am saddened to inform you that, unfortunately, I will not be able to participate in the Paris Olympic Games.

“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.

“Missing the Games is a huge disappointment as it was one of my main goals for this season. I couldn’t wait to have the honor of representing my country in this very important event.

“Good luck to all the Italian athletes who I will support from home. Forza Italia.”

Reports on Tuesday claimed that Sinner had been forced to delay his flight to Paris as he was suffering from a fever, sparking doubts over his involvement.

The Italian star was said to have planned to travel on Thursday – the day of the Olympics tennis draw – but he now won’t be present at all.

Sinner was among the favorites to win gold in the men’s singles, but his withdrawal has prompted an update to the seedings.

Novak Djokovic is eyeing his first Olympic gold to add to his 24 Grand Slam titles and will enter the event as the top seed.

Reigning French Open and Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz is the second seed and can now only feature in a blockbuster clash with Djokovic in the final or bronze medal match.

Alexander Zverev, Daniil Medvedev, Alex De Minaur, Casper Ruud, Taylor Fritz, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Tommy Paul and Ugo Humbert make up the top ten.

Holger Rune, Lorenzo Musetti, Sebastian Baez, Felix Auger-Aliassime, Arthur Fils and Alejandro Tabilo round off the seeded players.

The action at Roland Garros is set to get underway on Saturday.