PARIS: Novak Djokovic gained some consolation in missing out on a Grand Slam sweep this year by being crowned season-ending world number one for a record seventh time on Saturday.
The 34-year-old Serbian had previously jointly held the record with Pete Sampras but took sole possession when he beat Poland's Hubert Hurkacz 3-6, 6-0, 7-6 (7/5) to reach the Paris Masters final.
Djokovic had taken a seven week break after his dreams of a Grand Slam sweep were dashed by Daniil Medvedev in the US Open final in September.
However, the 20-time Grand Slam champion said on Friday the main reason for him returning this week was to seal the number one spot and break the record.
A beaming Djokovic said it was mission achieved.
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"It is a dream for me as Pete was my idol when I was a young boy," said Djokovic.
"To arrive at this moment is not just my achievement but my team's, it is wonderful to be in this position.
"I am m very proud to finish number one and what a match to do it in!
"It was so tight right to the last point but I am a very happy man now obviously."
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