Soderling out of Paris Masters

Sweden's Robin Soderling has confirmed he will not defend his title at the Paris Masters next month as he continues to struggle with mononucleosis, organisers announced on Thursday.

Sweden's Robin Soderling has confirmed he will not defend his title at the Paris Masters next month as he continues to struggle with mononucleosis, organisers announced on Thursday.

Soderling, the world number six, will be replaced by Brazilian Thomaz Bellucci in the final Masters 1000 of the season, which takes place at Bercy from November 7-13.

The 27-year-old has not played since mid-July and his victory at Bastad in Sweden. He had hoped to return in time for the Stockholm Open this week but had to pull out due to his symptoms which include fatigue.

Soderling, a double French Open finalist, has won four titles this season at Brisbane, Rotterdam, Marseille and Bastad.