DJOKOVIC NOW LONGEST STANDING NO. 1

Tennis great Novak Djokovic has surpassed German Steffi Graf as the player to spend the most weeks at number 1 in the world.

The Serbian is currently number 1 on the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) ranking for the 378th week. The ATM ranking system began in 1973.

Graf held the top spot for 377 weeks before Djokovic took over that position this week.

In a video message to his fans shared by the ATP Djokovic he has thanked them for their support.

“With your love and great strength that you have given me over the years, I’ve managed to achieve many fantastic achievements throughout my career.”

He went on to share how big this moment is since he managed to pass the most legendary of tennis players, Graf.

“The most recent one breaking the record of 378 weeks on the NO. 1 rankings, surpassing one of the greatest, most legendary tennis players – both men and women – that ever played, Steffi Graf. So I’m flattered, obviously extremely proud and happy for this achievement.”

Djokovic recently won the Australian Open which pushed his ranking up to number one again.

It’s unclear whether Djokovic will play in next month’s Indian Wells and Miami Open tournaments as the United States both still require international tourists to show proof of vaccination. Djokovic has missed out on several tournaments including the Australian Open last year when he refused to get vaccinated against Covid-19.

Image credit: The Times