Novak Djokovic has equalled Roger Federer’s all-time record for most weeks as the world No.1 in men’s tennis, holding the top spot for the 310th week.
Djokovic’s ninth Australian Open title last month guaranteed that he would surpass Federer’s record on March 8, having equalled it on Monday.
After reaching another milestone in his illustrious career, Djokovic may now look to adjust his schedule and make it his top priority to overhaul Federer and Rafa Nadal’s joint-record of 20 grand slam titles.
“Now, after achieving the historic number one for the longest weeks at number one, it’s going to be a relief for me because I’m going to focus all my attention on slams mostly,” the Serb had said after his title triumph in Melbourne.
Djokovic said when going for the No. 1 ranking, a player must compete for the entire season and play well at all tournaments, but now he could think differently.
“My goals will adapt and will shift a little bit, which means that I will have to adjust also my calendar – not have to, but I will have an opportunity to do that,” he said.
“As a father and a husband I’m really looking forward to that.”
This is Djokovic’s fifth stint atop the world rankings.
The 33-year-old reclaimed the top spot from Nadal in February last year and finished as the year-end No.1 for the sixth time – tying the record set by American great Pete Sampras.
Novak
Guest
Federer you say ? He was good during his time of 2003 to 2007/8. With the arrival of Rafa, Novak and to a lesser extent Andy Murray, Federer has been relegated to 3rd best in tennis achievements in the previous decade. Who will end up with Most Grand Slams ? No one knows but does not look like Federer will. Novak has the record for Most Weeks at Number 1. Novak has won the Golden Masters, leads Roger and Rafa H2H so the race for GOAT looks to be between Rafa and Novak since Roger is most probably retiring end of 2020. It's been a great period for tennis fans though. With Rafa and Novak being 5/6 years younger than Roger, they have more time on their side.
Riccardo
Roar Rookie
Meh. Federer!
Chris Lewis
Roar Guru
I hope Nadal wins the French, grand slams is what counts
Kane
Roar Guru
Daniil Medvedev is defending 1,095 between now and Wimbledon and is just 2,295 behind Djokovic. Djokovic has 5,515 to defend over this period. There is every chance...