Novak Djokovic has hailed his return to the top of the world rankings as a “phenomenal achievement”.
The Serbian’s place at the top of the standings after a two-year absence was confirmed earlier this week when Rafael Nadal was forced to withdraw from the Paris Masters.
Djokovic, who will officially take his place as world number one when the new rankings are released on Monday, is still going strong in that competition and he booked his place in the quarter-finals after seeing off Damir Dzumhur on Thursday.
The 31-year-old is targeting a record-extending fifth title in Paris, but for the time being he is happy to revel in his return to world number one – an achievement that seemed a long way off given his injury problems and lack of form at the start of the season.
“Reflecting on what I’ve been through in the last year, it’s quite a phenomenal achievement,” said Djokovic.
“I’m very, very happy and proud about it. Five months ago, it was highly improbable considering my ranking and the way I played and felt on the court.
“I’ll probably be able to speak more profoundly about it when the season is done and hopefully if I get to finish as number one.”
Djokovic has won four tournaments during the second-half of 2018, including two Grand Slam successes at Wimbledon and the US Open.
Another title in Paris this week remains on the agenda and he will take on Marin Cilic for a place in the semi-finals on Friday. Djokovic is priced at 1.13 to win that match, while Cilic is available at 5.25.
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