Djokovic, A Player Ranked First For The Sixth Time, Equals The Record Of His Childhood Hero Pete Sampras

Novak Djokovic (Source: Antara)

JAKARTA - Novak Djokovic has confirmed the rank of one in the men's singles at the end of the year for the sixth time. He matched the record of his childhood hero Pete Sampras after his closest rival Rafael Nadal opted out of the ATP Tour event in Sofia next week.

Spaniard 20 times Grand Slam champion Nadal, number two, is the only player who has a chance to stop the Serb from finishing as the top ranked player in 2020.

"Pete is someone I respected as I grew up, so matching his record was a dream come true," Djokovic said in an ATP statement quoted by Reuters on Saturday, November 7.

"I will also continue to strive to become a better player, hopefully have more success and break more records in the sport that I love with all my heart."

During the year Djokovic won the ATP Cup in January before extending his record by eight Grand Slam Australian Open in Melbourne. He also won the Cincinnati Masters and set a record 36th ATP Masters title in Rome.

In September Djokovic also overtook American Pete Sampras, who finished number one for six consecutive years between 1993 and 1998, for the most weeks overall at the top of the ranking and will start his 294th week in first place on Monday. , November 2.

33-year-old Djokovic, winner of 17 Grand Slam titles, has mentioned Roger Federer's record 310 weeks as number one remains his target and he will have a chance to beat the Swiss on March 8 if he can stay at the top.

"Ending this year as number one is one of the most impressive achievements in our sport, one that requires continuous excellence throughout the season," added ATP chairman Andrea Gaudenzi.

"Seeing Novak achieve this for the sixth time and match Pete's record is incredible, and he continues to cement his place in the history books."