The 39-year-old Serbian suffered a 2-6, 6-3, 6-3 loss against the world number 83, missing out on the opportunity to secure a place at the season-ending tournament in Turin.
Djokovic needed a strong run in Paris, potentially reaching the semi-finals, to keep his qualification hopes alive. His chances appeared to improve after two of his rivals for the remaining places were eliminated earlier in the day. However, he was unable to take advantage.
The Serbian made an encouraging start, comfortably taking the opening set 6-2. Hijikata gradually found his rhythm, raising his level towards the end of the second set before dominating much of the deciding set.
Djokovic appeared to struggle physically as the match progressed, committing several uncharacteristic errors and losing control of the contest. Hijikata maintained his intensity and delivered an impressive performance to complete the comeback.
Reflecting on the defeat, Djokovic praised his opponent's display while acknowledging his own shortcomings.
He said Hijikata played exceptional tennis, kept the ball low and rarely made mistakes. Djokovic also admitted that his serving had deteriorated and that he had allowed his opponent to take control of the match.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion said his immediate priority was getting some rest over the coming weeks.
Djokovic had been hoping to qualify for Turin and pursue a record-extending eighth ATP Finals title. His absence marks only the second time in the past 20 seasons that he has failed to qualify for the competition when fit, with his previous failure coming in 2017.
Despite reaching the Australian Open final and Wimbledon semi-finals this year, Djokovic has experienced an inconsistent campaign. He failed to reach the quarter-finals in any of the Masters 1000 tournaments played this season.
His elimination leaves Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul among the remaining contenders for the final two qualification spots, currently occupied by Frances Tiafoe and Rafael Jodar.
Tennis correspondent Russell Fuller noted that Djokovic's performances have declined noticeably, despite winning a title in Beijing. With his 40th birthday approaching in May 2027, maintaining his competitiveness could become increasingly challenging.
