Third-time year-end No1 Novak Djokovic honoured by four former champions

Following his third round-robin victory at this year’s ATP World Tour Finals, Novak Djokovic confirmed the world No1 ranking for the third time.

In a glittering presentation ceremony, four former No1s, John McEnroe, Mats Wilander, Carlos Moya, and his current coach Boris Becker, joined the Serbian star in front of a packed O2 arena to receive this huge trophy from Chris Kermode, the ATP Executive Chairman and President.

Kermode explained just what an achievement this has been: “On behalf of the ATP, I’d like to congratulate Novak on another phenomenal season. Finishing as the year-end No1 is the ultimate achievement in our sport.

“Since the inception of the rankings in 1973, only 16 players can lay claim to that achievement. It’s been a very exciting end to the season with Novak being pushed all the way by a resurgent Roger Federer. Novak has had another outstanding season and is truly deserving of his place as No1.”

Djokovic, clearly emotional, responded: “Being No1 in the world is probably one of the most difficult and biggest challenges that a tennis player can have, so it’s incredibly fulfilling and I’m very happy with this achievement.”

Djokovic returned to No1 in July this year after winning his seventh Grand Slam championship title at Wimbledon. During 2014, he has put together an 18-5 record against top 10 opponents and won six titles, including the Masters at Indian Wells, Miami, Rome and Paris. He was also runner-up at the French Open.

Djokovic first reached No1 in July 2011, following his maiden Wimbledon title, and competes in London as No1 for the 121st week in his career.