Novak Djokovic’s hopes of qualifying for the ATP Finals were brought to a stunning end by world No 83 Rinky Hijikata, who claimed the biggest win of his career by defeating the 24-time grand slam champion in Paris.

Djokovic’s chances of claiming one of the two final places at the year-end tournament had actually received a boost earlier on Wednesday following the exits of Frances Tiafoe, Rafael Jodar and Alex de Minaur, who were all above the 39-year-old in the Race to Turin standings.

But Djokovic squandered a major opportunity after winning the opening set against the Australian Hijikata, who found a brilliant level behind his attacking forehand to force the decider. Djokovic struggled with errors in the third, with Hijikata seizing his chance to beat Djokovic for the first time, 2-6 6-3 6-3.