Rinky Hijikata Knocks Out Novak Djokovic at Paris Masters
The Australian qualifier ended Novak Djokovic's ATP Finals qualification bid and advanced to face Argentina's Tomás Martín Etcheverry.
Australian qualifier Rinky Hijikata secured one of the biggest victories of his professional career by defeating seven-time champion Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 6-3 in the second round of the Paris Masters. Recovering from a difficult first set, Hijikata displayed tremendous resilience to eliminate the Serbian star and officially end his hopes of qualifying for the year-end ATP Finals in Turin.
Djokovic entered the tournament needing a deep run to secure a spot in the top eight of the ATP Race to Turin, especially with Jannik Sinner sidelined due to injury. However, the unexpected defeat marks the first time since 2017 that the 24-time Grand Slam champion has failed to qualify for the prestigious season-ending championship.
Reflecting on the match, Hijikata admitted that overcoming the tennis legend required immense effort. "It took a lot; I was getting outplayed for the first set and a little bit. I wasn't even close to his level; I knew I just had to really hang tough, had to keep trying to play my game, impose myself as much as I could," Hijikata said in an interview with Sky Sports.
Pundit and former player Ryan Harrison noted that Djokovic did not play poorly, but rather that Hijikata elevated his performance significantly after the opening set. According to match statistics, Hijikata capitalized on his blistering forehand, accumulating 29 winners off that wing and successfully countering Djokovic's formidable service games.
Prior to his clash with Hijikata, Djokovic had seen his path momentarily cleared when Argentine player Tomás Martín Etcheverry defeated Australia's Alex de Minaur 7-6 (7/2), 6-3. De Minaur's early exit had eliminated another direct rival in the race for Turin, but Djokovic was ultimately unable to capitalize on the opportunity.
Following the heartbreaking loss, Djokovic stated that his immediate plans involve taking time off to rest. Meanwhile, Hijikata prepares to face Tomás Martín Etcheverry in the third round of the Paris Masters on Thursday, November 5, with a spot in the quarterfinals on the line.