Novak Djokovic will end the year as men’s world No 1 for the sixth time, which brings him level with childhood hero, Pete Sampras. This was confirmed after closest rival, Rafael Nadal, decided against playing in Sofia next week.
Djokovic had a grand 2020, winning the ATP Cup in January before picking up a record-extending eight Australian Open Grand Slam in Melbourne.
The Serbian also won the Cincinnati Masters and a record 36th ATP Masters title in Rome.
Djokovic will begin his 294th week in the top spot starting on Monday, with his eyes set on Roger Federer’s record of 310 weeks as No 1.
Should Djokovic hold on to the top spot, he will have a chance to move past the Swiss on 8 March 2021.
“Pete was somebody I looked up to when I was growing up, so to match his record is a dream come true” Djokovic says in an ATP statement.
“I will also keep striving to be a better player, hopefully have more success and break more records in a sport I love with all my heart.”
“To finish the year as No. 1 is one of the most impressive achievements in our sport, one which requires sustained excellence across the season,” ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi adds.
“To see Novak achieve this for the sixth time and match Pete’s record is simply incredible, and he continues to cement his place in the history books.”
Tennis is a ‘one reigning person at a time’ kind of sport