“Novak Djokovic has matched a notable record set by his formidable rival Roger Federer, highlighting not only his enduring career but also his capability to excel against top-tier opponents.”
The world No 1 battled past Holger Rune in three sets in his opening match in the round-robin stage of the 2023 ATP Finals in Turin on Sunday night.
The victory saw Djokovic secure a record-extending eighth year-end finish as the ATP world No 1, with his idol Pete Sampras in second place with six seasons ended on top of the Rankings.
It also saw the Serbian extend his lead as the player with the most weeks spent as world No 1 and ensured his tally will surpass the 400-week mark. Djokovic’s
Djokovic achieved another stellar feat with his triumph, though, as his win over world No 10 Rune was his 14th triumph against an opponent ranked in the top 10 in 2023.
This saw the 36-year-old match the tally of 14 Federer attained during his superb 2017 season for the record number of victories over top 10 players in a season for a player aged 35 or over.
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This is a formidable total, given the 24-time Grand Slam champion is competing in just his 12th tournament of the year at the year-end championships.
The Serbian has lost just three matches against opposition in the top 10 this season, making his overall record a brilliant 14-3 (82.4%). He now has a remarkable 254-110 (69.8%) record in his career against top 10-ranked players.
Top 10 players Djokovic has defeated in 2023:
Daniil Medvedev (2x)
Andrey Rublev (3x)
Stefanos Tsitsipas
Carlos Alcaraz (2x)
Casper Ruud
Jannik Sinner
Taylor Fritz (2x)
Holger Rune (2x)
Djokovic has a great opportunity to surpass Federer’s tally, given he will play at least two more matches against top 10 opponents at the ATP Finals.
The world No 1 will take on fourth-ranked Jannik Sinner in his second tie in the Green Group in Turin, before a meeting with sixth-ranked Stefanos Tsitsipas.
The 36-year-old is looking to claim a seventh triumph at the ATP Finals as he currently shares the record of six year-end championship titles with Federer.
