378 weeks number one in the tennis world – Novak Djokovic breaks Steffi Graf’s record and sets his sights on further records. Grand Slam victories are the top priority for the insatiable Serb. With the Djokovic phenomenon, little seems impossible.
The insatiable has snagged the next record for the history books – and Novak Djokovic’s appetite is far from satiated. “You have to have this competitive spirit, this relentlessness and mental attitude of a wolf who always wants more,” said the 35-year-old exceptional talent, who with 378 weeks at the top of the tennis world rankings even tops Steffi Graf.
An achievement that means a lot to Djokovic. “Of course it’s surreal in a way to be number one in the world for so many weeks, to draw level with Steffi Graf, who is one of the greats in our sport,” said the Belgrade before the start of the tournament in Dubai: “It’s just flattering To stand between these legendary names. I’m very proud of it.” He prefers to be above all the other big names. Djokovic wants to be the sole number one, preferably in all important categories, and thus no longer allow any debate about the greatest player in history.
Grand Slam victories are his top priority. At the Australian Open, the idiosyncratic athlete, who always offends, initially put himself on a par with Rafael Nadal with his triumph. Djokovic already wants to attack his 23rd major title in the “living room” of the Spanish clay court king in Paris. He is already ahead with his 38 Masters victories. He won all nine tournaments in the second highest tour category and has a total of 93 ATP triumphs. The American Jimmy Connors leads this list with 109 titles.
Looking at the world rankings, Djokovic has long been the record holder at ATP level. Roger Federer follows in second place in the all-time ranking with 310 weeks. Djokovic will probably no longer catch up with the Swiss “Maestro” in the longest-lasting series at the top: he would have to hold the position for 233 more weeks.
Little seems impossible with Djokovic. “He has dominated tennis for the past ten or twelve years,” Alexander Zverev told the Punto de Break portal. According to the Olympic champion, he would have liked Graf to keep her record. “But you have to congratulate Novak,” said Zverev: “I’m sure he will set further records.”
