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Published 15:33 IST, November 4th 2019

Nadal surpasses Novak Djokovic to clinch the numero uno spot in ATP

Rafael Nadal surpassed Novak Djokovic to attain the numero uno spot in ATP Rankings. Nadal has succeeded in achieving this feat for the eighth time.

Reported by: Karthik Nair
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Rafael Nadal has been one of the finest players to have played the game of tennis. He, along with the likes of the legendary Roger Federer and the iconic Novak Djokovic, has been engaged in some fierce rivalries which have been watched by the tennis fans with great enthusiasm. Despite a successful career, 'The King of Clay' has had a fair share of injuries as well which have marred his career. Now, Nadal has made a huge impact in the ATP rankings.

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Nadal surpassed Djokovic to gain the numero uno spot

Rafael Nadal surpassed Novak Djokovic to gain the number one spot in the men's professional tennis rankings. This is the eighth occasion where the Spaniard has achieved this feat in his illustrious career. Meanwhile, Rafa also became the second-oldest player in ATP rankings history since 1973 to attain the top spot. He is currently 33. Roger Federer (36) is the oldest player to do so, having achieved the feat last year. At the same time, 'Spain's Raging Bull' will also be hoping to stay ahead of Novak Djokovic and finish this year at the top spot. If he succeeds in doing so, it will be the fifth instance after the years 2008, 2010, 2013 and 2017 respectively. However, if Rafa also succeeds in clinching the year-end No. 1 at the Nitto ATP Finals then, he would be the oldest player to do so.

READ: Djokovic beats Shapovalov, aims to finish the season as year-end No. 1

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Rafael Nadal on attaining the top spot

After Rafael Nadal surpassed his long-time rival Djokovic to attain the top spot, he spoke about what it meant to him to ATP. 

“I'm super happy with my season,” said Nadal. “It was a tough beginning but then I was able to find a way to be back playing at a very high level of tennis and be in the situation that I am today. I'm very proud about the year that I am having,'' Nadal was quoted saying this to ATP. 

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READ: Rafael Nadal talks about his latest setback

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14:28 IST, November 4th 2019