Turin, July 12: Novak Djokovic on Monday became the first singles player to qualify for 2021 ATP Finals after he clinched his sixth Wimbledon and a record-equaling 20th Grand Slam title. Djokovic defeated Italy’s Matteo Berrettini 6-7(4) 6-4 6-4 6-3 in the final on Sunday to seal a sixth Wimbledon title and qualify for the ATP Finals, to be held in Turin from November 14-21.
The World No 1 secured his 14th qualification for the season finale by winning his third straight major crown of 2021 to draw level with all-time leaders Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. In Turin, Djokovic will be attempting to win the season finale for a sixth time, which would see him equal Federer’s record at the elite event. “Italian fans are very much into tennis so I am sure it will be a great event with a fantastic atmosphere,’’ he added.
The 34-year-old Djokovic has competed at the ATP Finals between 2007-2016 and 2018-2020. He lifted the trophy in 2008, when the event was held in Shanghai, then over four consecutive years between 2012 and 2015 in London. Djokovic has compiled a 38-16 record at the prestigious tournament.
The Serbian is on course to finish 2021 as year-end No 1 in the ATP Rankings for a record-breaking seventh time – eclipsing Pete Sampras (1993-1998) – after a historic season, which includes winning the first three Grand Slam championships of the year, in addition to winning the Belgrade Open title in May. (UNI)
