Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from the Paris Masters 1000, citing an abdominal injury, hours before his match against compatriot Fernando Verdasco, in the second round. This of-course means that Novak Djokovic will return to world number one after the tournament ends.

“My abdominal muscles haven’t felt good for the past few days, especially on service, doctors recommended that I didn’t play”, said Rafael Nadal. “It’s been a difficult year for me in terms of injuries, and so I’d prefer to avoid doing anything drastic,” added the Spaniard. “It wouldn’t have been good for me nor anyone to return to the court knowing that I wouldn’t be able to play my best.”

This news comes hours after Milos Raonic announced his withdrawal and gave Federer another day to rest and a free path into the third round of the Paris Masters 1000. Read about it here :- Roger Federer Gets Walk-Over : Paris Masters

Please stay tuned as we update you as more news follows.