The 27-year-old earned the right to play at the tournament by claiming the men’s singles title at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, but it has now been confirmed that the two-time world champion will not compete.

Hong Kong’s Hu Yun has now been added to the eight-man field at the season-ending tournament, which will take place at the Hamdan Sports Complex from December 14 to 18.

The line-up contains Denmark’s Jan Ø Jorgensen, who finished top of the Destination Dubai rankings, and his compatriot Viktor Axelsen.

South Korea’s Son Wan Ho, China’s Tian Houwei, Hong Kong’s Ng Ka Long Angus, Germany’s Marc Zwiebler and Malaysia’s Lee Chong Wei will also be targeting a share of the $1 million (£790,000/€940,000) jackpot.

A late change has been made to the men’s doubles line-up with Olympic champions Fu Haifeng and Zhang Nan having also declined their wildcard entry.

The pairing have been replaced by their compatriots Li Junhui and Liu Yuchen.

Indonesia’s Nitya Krishinda Maheswari and Greysia Polii have been ruled out of the women’s doubles competition, with the former having undergone knee surgery.

Their place has been taken my Malaysia’s Vivian Hoo and Woon Khe Wei, who were next on the list of eligible qualifiers in the Destination Dubai rankings.

Prior to the tournament, badminton’s biggest stars are set to be honoured at the annual BWF Players of the Year Awards.

On December 12, this year’s Male Player of the Year and Female Player of the Year for both badminton and para-badminton will be crowned at the Players’ Reception and Gala Dinner.

The most promising young athlete will also be announced during the presentation ceremony.