Hijikata upsets Djokovic to end his ATP Finals hopes
Rinky Hijikata defeated Novak Djokovic 2‑6, 6‑3, 6‑3 in the second round of the Paris Masters, eliminating the seven‑time champion. The loss ends Djokovic’s chance to claim one of the two remaining ATP Finals spots in Turin. Hijikata, ranked world No 83, said he stayed aggressive after dropping the first set. Djokovic took a medical timeout for a shoulder problem during the second set. Earlier exits by Frances Tiafoe, Rafael Jodar and Alex de Minaur left the field open for other contenders such as Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul.
Key facts
- Hijikata struck 37 winners, including 29 forehand winners.
- World No 1 Alexander Zverev also exited in the second round.
- Tomas Martin Etcheverry defeated Alex de Minaur in the same round.
- Hijikata will meet Etcheverry in the third round.
- Djokovic had beaten Valentin Vacherot in Basel before his Paris match.
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Why it matters
The result reshapes the race for the season‑ending ATP Finals.
What changed
First published from The Independent, Yahoo Sports, Sky Sports and ABC News (Australia)