Djokovic back on top

PARIS.- Novak Djokovic officially returned to world No. 1 yesterday for the first time for two years, replacing Rafael Nadal.

The Serb lost in the final of the Paris Masters tennis tournament to Karen Khachanov on Sunday, but regained No. 1 spot for the first time since October 31, 2016.

Djokovic’s elevation comes just five months after he slumped to 22nd in the world – his lowest ranking for 12 years – when he was knocked out of the French Open in the quarter-finals. Khachanov’s reward for his surprise victory was a seven-place rise to 11th position.

Djokovic said he was proud of his “most amazing last five months” despite losing to Khachanov in Sunday’s Paris Masters final ahead of his return to world number one.

The 14-time Grand Slam winner replaced long-time rival Nadal at the top of the rankings yesterday, capping an astonishing revival that began with a fourth Wimbledon title in July.

Djokovic’s elevation is remarkable as it comes just five months after he slumped to 22nd in the world – his lowest ranking for 12 years – when he was knocked out of the French Open in the quarter-finals. – AFP.