What's happened
Australia’s Hi jikata has defeated Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 6-3 at the Paris Masters, marking a career milestone with a fourth top-20 scalp this year. The win snaps Djokovic’s bid to qualify for the season-ending championships and puts Hijikata within one win of a new career-high ranking. Djokovic says he was outplayed after a strong start by the world No. 83.
What's behind the headline?
Analysis
- The win signals a rising arc for Hijikata, who is already among a small group of Australians to defeat Djokovic this year. He is pushing toward a top-60 ranking and could disrupt seedings at Turin if momentum continues.
- Djokovic is facing a late-season slump and must rebound quickly to secure a spot in the ATP Finals; this result tightens the race and suggests his age is beginning to limit him in best-of-three matches on fast indoor courts.
- This shift could recalibrate expectations for Paris and the season finale, highlighting the volatility of form in 2026 and the opportunity for lower-ranked players to capitalize on Djokovic’s vulnerabilities.
How we got here
Hijikata, currently at a career-best season, has overcome a neck issue the day before the match and delivered a standout performance to topple seven-time Paris champion Djokovic in the indoor venue. Djokovic’s poor run in 2026 continues as he misses a potential Turin appearance.
Our analysis
The Guardian: Hijikata defeats Djokovic to move into Paris Masters third round; Arab News/ AP News report Djokovic’s bid to reach the ATP Finals is fading as he battles for form and fitness in Paris. All pieces note Hijikata’s rise and Djokovic’s struggle in 2026.
Go deeper
- Could Hijikata sustain this level through the rest of the Paris Masters?
- Will Djokovic adjust his strategy for the final stretch of the season?
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