In the crucial moments of a season or before very prestigious tournaments in which you have to get the best level of your tennis, the champions always respond. Novak Djokovic managed to win the Nitto ATP Finals for the sixth time in his career, confirming that he is definitely one of the best tennis players in the world.
The Serb did not lose a single match during the event held at the PalaAlpitour in Turin and dropped only one set in the group stage against Russia’s Daniil Medvedev. During the press conference after his straight-set victory over Norway’s Casper Ruud, the Belgrader was asked if he thinks he is the best player in the world.
Nole was not shy about responding and stated: “I don’t. I’m fifth (joking a bit). This week probably yes. In general, the ranking shows who has had the best year and Alcaraz is number 1 in the world. There’s not much to say about it,” he underlined.
He then continued: “In my mind I always see myself as the best player in the world, of course. I have that kind of mindset and that kind of focus. Regardless of who’s on the other side of the net, what the surface is, what season it is, what number of the pro season we’re facing in my career, I mean, it’s always the same.
The ambitions are the highest possible. I think that kind of focus has led me to be sitting here today, at the age of 35, with one of the biggest trophies in the sport.” I still feel motivated. I feel good in my body and take care of myself.
Everything starts with emotions, for me this is really love and passion. While I’m there, I will do everything in my power to challenge the youngsters for the biggest trophies,” concluded Djokovic.
Djokovic won the ATP Finals in Turin
In that context, former US Open runner-up Greg Rusedski believes Novak Djokovic is eyeing Court’s record more than Nadal’s current tally.
“I mean let’s not forget Martina Navratilova won her last Wimbledon title at 39 years of age so I see Novak out there if he’s healthy for another four, five years so imagine how many more Slams he’s going to have underneath his belt.
I don’t think he wants to get the men’s record, I think he wants to get the all-time record. Margaret Court 24. Serena 23, he wants to have 25,” Greg Rusedski said while speaking to Prime Video. “No question about it,” Rusedski said.
“He would’ve won it this year if he was allowed to play. He’s won it nine times, that’s his best Slam. There’s no question about it. Djokovic is just a step up, he’s just a world class player, he’s got all the assets, he’s got everything you need.”
