Novak Djokovic expressed the importance of equalling Roger Federer ’s record at the ATP Finals. The Serbian cruised to a 7-5, 6-3 victory over Casper Ruud in the championship match to claim his sixth title season-ending trophy yesterday. It also marks the fourth time in his career he has won the ATP Finals without losing a match.
The victory caps a rollercoaster of a season for Djokovic, who missed all the tournaments played in the US and Australia due to being unvaccinated against Covid-19. He lost his number one ranking due to points not being on offer at Wimbledon this summer, despite winning the trophy.
Despite his interrupted campaign, Djokovic was still able to win five titles, including a Masters 1000 title and a Grand Slam. After winning the ATP Finals once again, Djokovic said it felt even bigger after what has been a tumultuous 2022. "Of course, very satisfying and pleasing considering the journey this year that started really badly in Australia with all the things happening," Djokovic told Eurosport.
"So this victory is even bigger as I said, considering the circumstances that my team, my family and I have been through, but I felt I was not alone. I felt big support from my people, from Serbia, from the region. It was just a matter of time before I would find that balance and optimal strength in my game in order to really peak and start playing the best tennis I possibly can.
"Midway through the season that started to happen and I won Wimbledon and after Wimbledon I think I lost one match only." He also expressed his gratitude at being allowed back into Australia to participate in their Grand Slam next year. "It’s been an amazing finish, I couldn’t ask for a better scenario," he continued.
"I’m still greatly motivated and inspired to play tennis at this level and I’m so happy I’ll be able to go back to Australia and play at my most successful Grand Slam. We’ll take it from there." In the post-match trophy presentation, Djokovic thanked his family after capturing his first ATP Finals crown since 2015.
"I've probably talked about this season and how unusual it is 1,000 times prior to this interview,” Djokovic said. "I'm not going to repeat what most people who follow tennis know. Yeah, just big relief and satisfaction. I look forward to having a couple weeks off. I'm really glad that I managed to end it in a positive way.”
“I would like to thank my family and my team for being here with me, not just today but throughout the entire journey of my career. I want to thank all of you guys for going through some tough times, particularly this year with me, believing in me, staying patient.
“Giving me the necessary strength and support, a shoulder to lean on, a shoulder to cry on. It's been a rollercoaster year, something I've never experienced before in my life. And only we know what we've been through. I want you to know that I really appreciate you. This trophy is equally yours as it's mine.”
