Novak Djokovic has reflected on his journey back to world No.1 during a special presentation ceremony at the ATP Finals in London on Sunday.
Djokovic, 31, has become the first player history to secure the position after being ranked outside the top 20 earlier in the season. At his lowest, the Serbian was ranked 22nd in the world during June. Djokovic returned to the tour in January at the Australian Open following a six-month hiatus due to an elbow injury. In what was a roller coaster return, he only managed to win back-to-back matches in his two out of his first six tournaments of 2018. During that period, he also had to undergo a surgical procedure on his elbow in February.
“It has been an amazing season, especially the last five, six months,” Djokovic said during the presentation. “In June I was number 22 in the rankings and obviously coming back from a major injury and surgery earlier this year in February.
“It took some time for me to find my confidence and level of tennis that I was looking for and working hard for.”
After a lackluster start to the season, Djokovic turned things around at the Wimbledon Championships where he claimed his 13th Grand Slam title. Dropping only three sets on route to the trophy. Since Wimbledon, he has won 31 out of 33 matches played on the ATP Tour. Losing only to Stefanos Tsitsipas and Karen Khachanov. He added to his major title collection by triumphing at the US Open, as well as winning Masters tournaments in Cincinnati and Shanghai. Last week Djokovic was named Comeback Player of the Year at the annual ATP Awards.
“Everything seems to be a little unreal, to be honest. Looking back at June on the court I Wasn’t playing my best.” He reflected. “So this is really a dream come true.’
“This is a perfect stage and perfect setting to celebrate this trophy.”
Heading into this year’s ATP Finals, Djokovic has won 49 out of 60 matches played in 2018. He will kick-off his campaign on Monday against John Isner. He is bidding to win the tournament for the sixth time. An accolade that has only been achieved by Roger Federer.
It is the fifth time Djokovic has been named year-end No.1 and the first since 2015. He also secured the position in 2011, 2012 and 2014.
