Djokovic ends season as number one for eighth time

Novak Djokovic extended his record to eight years as world number one, after beating Holger Rune in his opening match of the ATP Finals.

Djokovic, at 36, became the oldest player to end the year at the top of the ATP Tour rankings. Two years ago, he had finished a record seven times as the year-end No. 1, and was the oldest to do so at 34. He had previously finished at the top of the world rankings in 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2018 and 2020.

Djokovic celebrates his 7-6, 6-7, 6-3 victory over Rune in the Blue Group of the ATP Finals in Turin, Italy on November 12. Photo: Reuters — Djokovic celebrates his 7-6, 6-7, 6-3 victory over Rune in the Blue Group of the ATP Finals in Turin, Italy on November 12. Photo: *Reuters*

Before Djokovic, the legendary Pete Sampras finished the season as the leader six times. Roger Federer, Jimmy Connors and Rafael Nadal each had five times.

Djokovic also reached 400 weeks at the top of the ATP rankings on November 20, including 25 weeks in the 2023 season. The ATP top spot has changed hands seven times this season, rotating between Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz. The Spaniard's loss of steam in the last three months of the year has helped Nole firmly consolidate his lead since the US Open.

Both Djokovic and Alcaraz have won six titles this season. But Djokovic has the better of the two, with three Grand Slam titles from four finals. The Serb is aiming for a record seventh ATP Finals title. He and Federer now have six titles each.

Djokovic is on a 19-match winning streak dating back to Wimbledon. He has won 52 of his 57 matches this season, a win rate of 91% - about 8% higher than his career win rate. He has faced players in the world's top 10 17 times this season and has won 14 of them. As of November 13, Djokovic has won 29 of his 36 tie-breaks in 2023.

"Novak Djokovic continues to set new standards in men's tennis," said ATP President Andrea Gaudenzi. "Finishing the year as number one eight times is an incredible achievement. It shows the passion and class of a true champion. I think Djokovic will continue to set many more records."

Vy Anh

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