Novak Djokovic’s hopes of securing a place at the ATP Finals ended at the Paris Masters after he was beaten by Rinky Hijikata in three sets. Djokovic took the opener 6-2 but lost the next two 6-3, 6-3 as Hijikata raised his level and the Serbian appeared to struggle physically.
The defeat came after other results at the tournament had opened a route for Djokovic to qualify for the season-ending event for the 19th time. Instead, he joined a list of prominent players knocked out in Paris.
Djokovic said he had felt in control for the first set and part of the second, but then lost his grip on the match. He also praised Hijikata, saying the Australian was not missing and kept the ball low. “I should’ve won this match,” Djokovic said.
Hijikata said he had focused on playing aggressively and backing himself in important moments. He acknowledged that Djokovic had been too strong early on, but said he was pleased to maintain his level as the match progressed.
Djokovic’s loss also improved the qualifying prospects of Rafael Jodar and Frances Tiafoe. Jodar currently occupies the final qualifying position, while Tiafoe’s chances received a boost. Djokovic is due to play in Greece next week in what will be his final tournament of the 2026 season.
Sources: Tennis365.