Novak Djokovic secured the year-end world No. 1 ranking for the eighth time in his career.
The victory ensured that Djokovic would finish the year at the top of the rankings, beating Holger Rune 7-6 (4), 6-7 (1), 6-3 on Sunday. It is the first time that Djokovic has secured the year-end No. 1 ranking in consecutive years since 2018.
Djokovic’s achievement is even more remarkable considering that he missed two Grand Slams this year due to his vaccination status. He was unable to compete in the Australian Open and the US Open, but he still managed to win three Grand Slam titles at Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and the French Open.
Djokovic’s eighth year-end No. 1 ranking moves him one clear of Rafael Nadal in second place on the all-time list, behind only Pete Sampras, who won it six times. It is a testament to Djokovic’s dominance of the sport over the past decade.
The 35-year-old Serbian is showing no signs of slowing down, and he is the favorite to win his 22nd Grand Slam title at the Australian Open in January 2024.