World No.1 Novak Djokovic might have been unaware that during his latest match at the Paris Masters he was on the verge of achieving something only three players in the history of men’s tennis had done before.
The world No.1 saw off British No.3 Kyle Edmund in straight sets to progress to the quarter-finals of the last Masters event of 2019. Furthermore, he has recorded his 50th win of the season. It is the 12th time Djokovic has recorded 50 or more wins within a season. Drawing level with Ivan Lendl on the all-time list. Only rival Roger Federer (16) and Jimmy Connors (14) have reached the mark on more occasions, according to data from the ATP World Tour.
This week Djokovic is aiming to win a record fifth title in Paris ahead of the prestigious ATP Finals. At both of those events last year he had to settle for runner-up. However, the 16-time grand slam champion is hoping to go one step further this time around.
“Throughout my career, I played really well both in Paris and London. I don’t know whether there is any other particular reason. I think it’s just suitable to my game.” Djokovic explained.
“I’m also trying to find another drop of necessary energy to finish off the season in the best possible way. Mentally I’m obviously as everybody else, but I’m talking for myself, trying to push myself even harder to really make the finish line as best possible.”
On Friday Djokovic has a shot at revenge when he takes on Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas. He currently trails their head-to-head and lost their most recent meeting at the Shanghai Masters last month. Djokovic is the only player in the current top five to have a losing record against Tsitsipas.
“Obviously he’s one of the best players in the world. He’s already established player. He’s an all around player, plays very well on all surfaces. He has great working ethics, very dedicated.” He said of his upcoming rival.
“Let the better player win, I guess. I’m hoping that I can start off the match as well as I did in Shanghai but also kind of keep going to the end.” He added.
Coincidentally Tsitsipas also recorded his 50th win of the season on Thursday after dismissing Alex de Minaur in straight sets. In total the 21-year-old has won 100 matches in his entire professional career.
Finally, Rafael Nadal also reached the milestone on the same day for the 11th time in his career after defeating Stan Wawrinka. The king of clay moves up to fourth on the all-time list.
Djokovic’s seasons with 50+ wins
2019: 50-9*
2018: 53-13
2016: 65-9
2015: 82-6
2014: 61-8
2013: 74-9
2012: 75-12
2011: 70-6
2010: 61-18
2009: 78:19
2008: 64-17
2007: 68-19
*as of end of October 2019
