Defending champion Robin Soderling of Sweden has pulled out of next month’s Paris Masters because of illness, organisers declared on Thursday.

Currently ranked as World No. 6, Soderling has been suffering from the viral infection mononucleosis and has not participated in any tournament since he won in Bastad in July.

In a message to his fans, the Swede tweeted on Face book account that, ‘I’m extremely disappointed and sad right now. Playing in Stockholm is very special for me and it’s a title I still miss and dream about.” He further added that “I made an attempt to train, but my body just could not do it. I felt worse after practice and so had to make a tough decision to not play in Stockholm. I have to think long term and plan to play tennis for years to come. I believe the best days are in front of me. I will do everything I can to get through this difficult time and come back stronger and more motivated than ever.”

This withdrawal can jeopardise Soderling’s chances of qualifying in the ATP Tour Finals, to be held in London next month. Soderling has been replaced in the Paris Masters draw by Brazilian Thomaz Bellucci.