Novak Djokovic pulls out of ATP Finals an hour after winning title and issues explanation

Novak Djokovic has confirmed he will not play at the season-ending ATP Finals, just over an hour after beating Lorenzo Musetti to win the Hellenic Championship in Greece. The Serb won his 101st ATP title after an exhausting two-hour, 59-minute battle in Athens and then privately informed Musetti on court that he would be withdrawing.

In a statement posted on social media, Djokovic - a seven-time winner of the ATP Finals - wrote: "I was really looking forward to competing in Turin and giving my best but after today's final in Athens, I'm sad to share that I need to withdraw due to an ongoing injury. I'm truly sorry to the fans who were hoping to see me play - your support means so much. I wish all the players an amazing tournament and I can't wait to be back on the court with you all soon!"

Musetti revealed in his post-match chat with the press that Djokovic had told him moments after the final of his decision. He explained: "Novak told me on the court that he won't be going to Turin. Not sure how to feel now after losing the final, but Novak told me that. It's better that the Race to Turin will stop after Paris next year."

The Italian needed to beat Djokovic to qualify directly for the ATP Finals in Turin. His loss means Felix Auger-Aliassime instead took the eighth and final spot in the draw. But Musetti will now replace the 24-time Grand Slam champion in the Jimmy Connors Group instead. He will join world No.1 and defending champion Jannik Sinner as one of two home hopes in the tournament.

Musetti said on court after losing to Djokovic 4-6, 6-3, 7-5: "What can I say? It's tough to speak after playing three hours against Nole. First of all I want to say thanks to everybody, it's been a special atmosphere. I felt at home honestly.

"I really like Athens so hopefully I can come back. Of course Novak, there's not many words to say about yourself or your career. Still at your age you're kicking asses, like mine like today. Every time I step on court against you and share the court with you, I take it as a lesson. Thanks for that.

"I want to thank everybody who made the tournament possible, it's a nice location and hopefully we can have more here in Greece. Last but not least, I want to thank my team and my family for always supporting me. It's always tough in these moments.

"The last three years, I've reached some finals but never lifted the heavier trophy. I'm sure pretty soon I will reach that goal. Thank you everybody."

After his exhausting victory in Athens, Djokovic had some very kind words for Musetti, telling his opponent during his speech: "I think at this level we all experience the feeling of playing such close matches and losing. I know it's a tough feeling to accept right now.

"If there's anything positive to take away, your performance and level of tennis has been incredible all week. I played you many times on different surfaces.

"I hope you don't mind me saying but you probably play your best tennis on a clay court over the course of your career. honestly your improvement on hard court is amazing. Keep it going, you're on the right path and I'm sure the future is bright."