Novak Djokovic Clinches 2021 Year-End No. 1, Sets Record

Novak Djokovic added another record to his growing list of accomplishments. The Serb won a tight semifinal today at the Paris Masters defeating Hubert Hurkacz 3-6, 6-0, 7-6(5). The win clinches the year-end No. 1 ranking for Djokovic for a record seventh time, breaking the tie he and Pete Sampras shared.

“Just proud and extremely happy. Obviously that was one of the biggest goals and it’s always one of the biggest goals, to try to be No. 1 and end the season as No. 1,” Djokovic said. “To do it for the record seventh time and surpass my childhood idol and role model, Pete, is incredible. Very grateful, very blessed to be in this position.”

Djokovic has finished No. 1 in seven of the last 11 season: 2011-12, 14-15, 18, 20-21.

Djokovic missed a chance at a gold medal and the Calendar Slam, but has won four titles including three Grand Slams, plus a chance at a sixth Paris Masters title tomorrow and another ATP Finals crown in two weeks.

Djokovic will meet defending champion Daniil Medvedev for the Paris title on Sunday.

MOST YEAR-END ATP NO. 1 FINISHES
Novak Djokovic 7
Pete Sampras 6
Roger Federer 5
Rafael Nadal 5
Jimmy Connors 5
John MeEnroe 4
Ivan Lendl 4