Novak Djokovic Fulfils Dream In Breaking Idol Pete Sampras's Record
NDTV
Novak Djokovic gained some consolation in missing out on a Grand Slam sweep this year by being crowned season-ending world number one for a record seventh time on Saturday.
Novak Djokovic gained some consolation in missing out on a Grand Slam sweep this year by being crowned season-ending world number one for a record seventh time on Saturday. The 34-year-old Serbian had previously jointly held the record with Pete Sampras but took sole possession when he beat Poland's Hubert Hurkacz 3-6, 6-0, 7-6 (7/5) to reach the Paris Masters final. Djokovic had taken a seven week break after his dreams of a Grand Slam sweep were dashed by Daniil Medvedev in the US Open final in September.
However, the 20-time Grand Slam champion said on Friday the main reason for him returning this week was to seal the number one spot and break the record.
"It is a dream for me as Pete was my idol when I was a young boy," said Djokovic.
"To arrive at this moment is not just my achievement but my team's, it is wonderful to be in this position.
"I am very proud to finish number one and what a match to do it in. It was so tight right to the last point but I am a very happy man now obviously."
