By Islam El-Sakka
Novak Djokovic's bid to qualify for the ATP Finals ended in a stunning defeat to qualifier Rinky Hijikata at the Paris Masters on Wednesday.
Hijikata claims career-best win
The 24-time Grand Slam champion won the opening set but fell 2-6, 6-3, 6-3 to the world No. 83, who secured his first career victory over Djokovic. The loss came a day after Djokovic beat Valentin Vacherot in three sets and took a medical timeout for a shoulder injury.
Qualification scenario shifts
Djokovic, 39, needed a deep run in Paris to reach the season-ending tournament. His chances had improved earlier Wednesday after rivals Frances Tiafoe, Rafael Jodar and Alex de Minaur all lost, but he could not capitalize.
The day also saw Lorenzo Musetti defeat new world No. 1 Alexander Zverev and Daniil Medvedev lose to Ignacio Buse. Arthur Fils has now qualified for the ATP Finals, joining Zverev, Carlos Alcaraz, Ben Shelton, Medvedev and Flavio Cobolli, with two spots remaining for Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul.
