Novak Djokovic came close to winning Pete Sampras’ record for the number of seasons completed as world number one thanks to his victory over Filip Krajinovic at the tournament in Vienna on Tuesday.
The world number one dominated his compatriot 7-6 (6), 6-3 for his entry into contention. He only needs a win over Borna Coric in the next round to ensure he finishes the season at the top of the world pecking order for the sixth time, as much as his childhood idol.
The 33-year-old Serb has already finished the year as world number one five times: in 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2018. Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer have accomplished this feat five times.
Djokovic, winner of 17 Grand Slams, also has his sights set on Federer’s record for the number of weeks spent in the number one spot at 310 weeks. The Serb began his 292nd week at the top of world tennis on Monday.
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