Paris, November 5:
Novak Djokovic’s hopes of qualifying for the ATP Finals ended on Wednesday after the Serbian suffered a shock 2-6, 6-3, 6-3 defeat to Australian qualifier Rinky Hijikata in the second round of the Paris Masters.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion started strongly, taking the opening set comfortably, but Hijikata, ranked 83rd in the world, fought back to turn the match around. The defeat also marked an early end to Djokovic’s campaign in Paris, where he has won the title seven times.
Hijikata broke Djokovic in the eighth game of the second set before serving out the frame to level the match. The contest remained close in the decider until Djokovic lost his serve at 3-3. The Australian capitalised on the opportunity, securing another break to complete the upset.
Djokovic admitted he was disappointed with the result, particularly after controlling the opening set. “Disappointment obviously, losing a match that I felt like I was dominating for the first set,” he said.
However, the Serbian acknowledged Hijikata’s performance, praising his consistency and ability to keep the ball low. “He was switched on, I wasn’t serving as well and he was just playing out of his mind honestly. He was not missing and keeping the ball low and just a terrific performance,” Djokovic said.
The 39-year-old said he would take a break over the next few weeks, describing his immediate plan as “just rest”. The loss ended his hopes of making the ATP Finals later this month.