It was officially confirmed that Novak Djokovic will finish a year ranked world No 1 for the sixth time, equalling Pete Sampras' record. At 33-years-old, the Serbian is the oldest man to achieve the feat
Saturday 7 November 2020 10:35, UK
Novak Djokovic has sealed the year-end men's world No 1 ranking for the sixth time to go level with childhood hero Pete Sampras after closest rival Rafael Nadal opted against playing in the ATP Tour event in Sofia next week.
During 2020 Djokovic won the ATP Cup in January before picking up a record-extending eight Australian Open Grand Slam in Melbourne. He also won the Cincinnati Masters and a record 36th ATP Masters title in Rome.
The Serbian will begin his 294th week in first spot on Monday with Roger Federer's record of 310 weeks as No 1 his target.
He will have a chance to move past the Swiss on March 8 if he can hold on to his top spot.
"Pete was somebody I looked up to when I was growing up, so to match his record is a dream come true" Djokovic said 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 added.
"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."
Don't forget to follow us on skysports.com/tennis, our Twitter account @skysportstennis & Sky Sports - on the go! Available to download now on - iPhone & iPad and Android
