Novak Djokovic has been eliminated from the ATP Finals race for only the second time in 20 seasons following a shock second-round defeat at the Rolex Paris Masters. The 39-year-old, a seven-time champion in Paris, needed to reach the semi-finals to stay in contention for the season-ending showpiece in Turin but faded in a 2-6 6-3 6-3 loss to world No 83 Rinky Hijikata. With two spots still available, Djokovic's exit opens the door for contenders like Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul.
Meanwhile, Alexander Zverev suffered a historic debut loss as world No 1, becoming the first male player to lose in straight sets on his first match at the top ranking. The 29-year-old German, who won the French and US Opens this year, was defeated 7-6 (7-5) 6-2 by Italy's Lorenzo Musetti. Zverev expressed frustration, stating he felt the need to justify his ranking despite the loss.
Musetti, a former world No 5, seized control after winning the tie-break and breaking Zverev twice in the second set.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing