Preview ATP Paris Masters 2024: A changing tournament in last Bercy edition with no Novak Djokovic

The Paris Masters 2024 marks the 52nd edition of one of the most prestigious tournaments in the ATP calendar. As the final ATP Masters 1000 event of the season, it's a crucial competition, set to be played indoors at the AccorHotels Arena in the vibrant Bercy neighbourhood of Paris.

This tournament stands out not just for its location but for its rich history and its status as a critical lead-up to the season-ending ATP Finals. This year’s tournament has already stirred excitement, particularly due to the absence of Novak Djokovic, as the Serbian has long been the dominant force in this event.

The Paris Masters has a rich history, dating back to its origins as the French Covered Court Championships. Established in 1969, it was initially intended to be the premier indoor tournament in France. Over time, it grew in stature, eventually becoming one of the nine ATP Masters 1000 events, which are second only to the Grand Slams in importance. Its shift to the AccorHotels Arena in 1986 marked a significant development, positioning it as a key indoor hard-court event that draws the world's best players.

Notable finals over the years have cemented the Paris Masters as a tournament where legends are made and new talents rise. Andre Agassi, Pete Sampras, and Roger Federer have all left their mark, but none more so than Novak Djokovic, who holds the tournament record with an impressive seven titles. The Paris Masters is unique in that it is played at a time when many players are fatigued, often leading to surprising upsets and thrilling performances from those who still have the energy to push for one final big victory before the season concludes.

The question is, are we in store for any surprises in 2024?

No player has defined the Paris Masters like Novak Djokovic. With seven titles, including three consecutive wins between 2013 and 2015, Djokovic has not only dominated but has redefined what it means to be a champion at this event. His nine finals appearances underscore a remarkable consistency, showcasing his ability to peak late in the season when other players begin to falter. His victory in 2023, where he defeated Grigor Dimitrov 6-4, 6-3, was a testament to his enduring talent. Coming off a record-tying 24th Grand Slam victory at the US Open that year, Djokovic’s Paris triumph showed that even minor setbacks, like an eye issue during the final, couldn't derail his pursuit of sporting greatness.

This year, however, Djokovic's absence looms large over the tournament. His withdrawal is a significant moment, ending a streak of dominance and leaving the door open for a new champion to seize the indoor crown. Djokovic’s statement to fans on social media was heartfelt: “I have a lot of great memories, winning seven titles and I hope to be back with you next year. Sorry to everyone who was hoping to see me there.” For the first time since 2017, the Paris Masters will be without Djokovic, and his absence not only shakes up the draw but changes the dynamics of the competition.

In 2023, Djokovic showcased why he’s considered one of the greatest in the history of the sport. His straight-sets victory over Grigor Dimitrov was yet another masterclass in focus and adaptability. It was a challenging start for Djokovic, as he dealt with an eye issue early on, which saw him miss some key points. However, true to form, Djokovic's ability to remain composed under pressure allowed him to claw back into the match, converting a crucial break point in the fourth game of Dimitrov’s serve. Despite a momentary surge from Dimitrov, Djokovic’s relentless precision saw him take the first set, even as he drew boos from parts of the crowd, a reaction he used to fire himself up.

The second set saw Dimitrov’s level drop, perhaps under the weight of Djokovic’s steady intensity. A crucial double fault at 2-1 allowed Djokovic to convert another break, leading to a quick path to victory. By the time Dimitrov had an angry outburst, the match was already slipping away. Djokovic's dominance in Paris was confirmed once again as he clinched his 40th Masters 1000 title, showcasing his formidable indoor prowess.

Djokovic’s decision to skip the 2024 Paris Masters is monumental. It opens up the competition in ways unseen in recent years. In his absence, the tournament's significance has only increased for those eyeing the final major points of the season. Djokovic, who at 37, remains one of the sport's most formidable players, had a solid year despite not winning a Grand Slam, a feat not seen since 2017. His season highlight is undoubtedly completing his career golden slam by finally clinching his maiden Olympic gold, in Paris in the summer. His withdrawal means that young guns like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz have a golden opportunity to claim the Paris crown and boost their confidence before heading to the ATP Finals.

Jannik Sinner, the current World No. 1, had a phenomenal year, securing victories at the Australian Open and the US Open. Meanwhile, Carlos Alcaraz, World No. 2, dominated the French Open and Wimbledon. Djokovic’s absence also means that both Sinner and Alcaraz will have the chance to stake their claim as the new dominant forces in men’s tennis, particularly in the indoor setting where Djokovic has been virtually untouchable.

With Djokovic out, the 2024 Paris Masters draw is led by the world leading duo of Sinner and Alcaraz. Both players are known for their aggressive playstyles, and both are keen to add an indoor Masters title to their resumes. The draw, however, is anything but straightforward.

Jannik Sinner faces a challenging route, potentially meeting either Ben Shelton or Felix Auger-Aliassime in the second round after a bye in the opening round. The world number 2 Carlos Alcaraz also has a tricky path, opening against either Nicolas Jarry or a qualifier, as he and the other top 8 seeds sit out the first round.

Alexander Zverev, who was a finalist at the French Open earlier in the year, faces Luciano Darderi or Tallon Griekspoor in the opening round. Daniil Medvedev, a hard-court specialist, has a tough potential second-round clash with Alexei Popyrin or Matteo Berrettini. And there’s also Taylor Fritz, the US Open finalist, who will meet Jack Draper or Jiri Lehecka to get his competition underway.

The absence of Djokovic leaves the tournament more open than ever, with every top contender seeing an opportunity to make a deep run. Players like Holger Rune, who won in Paris two years ago, will be eager to replicate his success, while others like Casper Ruud and Stefanos Tsitsipas will look to rebound from inconsistent seasons.

The Paris Masters holds a unique place in the tennis calendar. As the last Masters 1000 event of the year, it serves as a final opportunity for players to secure crucial ranking points and a spot in the season-ending ATP Finals in Turin. For some, it's a chance to fine-tune their game; for others, it’s a make-or-break moment to salvage the season. The tournament’s indoor hard-court setting also provides a stark contrast to the outdoor conditions of most events, favouring players with strong serves and aggressive baselines. This makes for thrilling, fast-paced matches that often deliver unexpected results.

With the ATP Finals in November looming just weeks after the Paris Masters, the stakes are higher than ever. The tournament serves as a bellwether for who might perform well in Turin. Sinner and Alcaraz will be the ones to watch, but dark horses like Medvedev, who has thrived indoors before, and Rune, a previous champion, could throw a wrench in the plans of the top seeds.

Djokovic’s absence is bittersweet; while it marks the end of an era, it also opens the door for the next generation. For players and fans alike, the 2024 Paris Masters promises high-stakes drama, fresh rivalries, and the chance for someone new to etch their name into the tournament’s storied history.

As the curtain rises on the 2024 Paris Masters, tennis fans are braced for an electrifying week of high-level competition. Without Djokovic, the tournament is up for grabs, adding an element of unpredictability. Whether a grand slam champion claims the crown or a new star emerges, the Paris Masters will continue to be a pivotal chapter in the ATP’s closing season narrative.