Novak Djokovic says breaking Steffi Graf’s record of 377 weeks at number one in the rankings on Monday is “dreamlike” and that he is glad to outperform one of the game’s unsurpassed greats. The Serb will compete in Dubai for the first time since winning his record-breaking 22nd Grand Slam title and 10th Australian Open crown last month, marking his 378th week at the top of men’s tennis.
I actually need more accomplishments,” Djokovic told correspondents in Dubai on Sunday. I’m motivated by my goals. I’m as committed to the game truly as any other individual. “Of course, being world number one for that long to match Steffi Graf, who is one of the all-time greats of our sport, both men and women, is surreal in a way. Simply being among these incredible names is complimenting. I’m extremely pleased with it.
Djokovic claims to have recovered from a muscle tear in his left hamstring that he had sustained in Australia and is undefeated in all 12 matches he has played so far this season. “I’m getting closer and closer to 100 percent. Still not there as far as the actual game, how I feel on the court. However, the absence of pain is what matters most. The 35-year-old declared, “I don’t have anything that prevents me from moving on the court.”
Leave a Reply