Novak Djokovic: No surprise if I regain world No 1 spot at ATP World Tour Finals
Friday 18 November 2016 16:40, UK
Novak Djokovic says he would not regard it as a surprise if he wins his battle with Andy Murray and returns to the top of the world rankings just two weeks after surrendering his No 1 status.
Djokovic's 122-week reign as No 1 was ended by Murray's success at the Paris Masters, but the race to secure first place in the year-end rankings is set for a dramatic conclusion at the ATP World Tour Finals, live on Sky Sports.
The Serb reached the semi-finals with three successive victories after defeating Belgium's David Goffin 6-1 6-2 at London's O2 Arena on Thursday.
Djokovic must wait to see who faces in the semi-finals but he goes into the last four knowing his fate is in his own hands, as he is certain to overtake Murray if he wins the Tour Finals for a fifth successive year and record-equalling sixth time.
That scenario would be the perfect way to round off an unusually inconsistent season for the 29-year-old, who has struggled since winning the Australian and French Opens earlier this year.
Asked if he would be surprised to regain the top ranking so soon after losing it, Djokovic said: "Well, I have not the same perception of 'surprise' as you do. To me, that wouldn't be a surprise."
Djokovic has lost just one match at the Tour Finals since 2012, while Murray has never reached the final.
The Scot might not be best placed to hold off Djokovic's charge as he will have to play three days in a row following his three-hour marathon win against Nishikori on Wednesday, while his rival benefits from a recovery day.
Live Tennis: ATP World Tour Finals
"That's obviously something that you wish for as a player, to have everything in your hands, not to depend on other players," added Djokovic.
"In this particular case, I'm glad that it's like that. Everything has been going in a positive direction.
"I've been playing better and better as I proceed in the tournament. I have now a day of rest.
"It's the last couple matches of the year, hopefully. One thing is for sure: I'm going to give it all on the court and see what happens."
