There are few metrics where the GOAT debate is split evenly among the ‘Big Three’, but Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal an Novak Djokovic are now in a three-way tie for the most year-end No. 1 finishes.
While Pete Sampras (6) leads the way, Nadal has drawn level with Federer, Djokovic and Jimmy Connors in joint-second place.
He picked up his year-end No. 1 trophy after another battling ATP Finals win, this time edging Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-7 (3-7) 6-4 7-5 in two hours and 52 minutes – the longest match of the week.
Most year-end No. 1 finishes
6 – Sampras
5 – Federer
5 – Djokovic
5 – Connors
5 – Nadal
4 – Lendl
4 – McEnroe
The result of his Friday afternoon win over the young Greek wouldn’t have affected his year-end ranking – with Djokovic’s defeat to Federer confirming his status as the world’s best player in 2019 – but it keeps him in contention to face Federer on Saturday as he continues his pursuit of a first title at the O2.
Joined on court by outgoing ATP chief Chris Kermode after the match, Nadal said: ‘First of all, thanks Chris for everything. It’s a real honour to receive this trophy from you, thank you for all the things you did for our sport, Chris.
‘Honestly, what can I say? I’m super happy. Honestly, after all the things I went through in my career in terms of injuries, I never thought at the age of 33-and-a-half I would have this trophy in my hands again.
‘It’s something really emotional for me. A lot of work on the shadows to be where we are today. Without all my team and family here next to me, this thing would be impossible.
‘There have been some bad moments and you have been always there. This year for example before Monte Carlo, after Monte Carlo without the support of these people, this year would be very different for me.
Putting the trophy down, he added with a smile: ‘It’s a little bit heavy.
‘I don’t know if I see you guys tomorrow, because it depends on this afternoon. I did all the things I could today, I fought til the end two days ago and today.
‘If I am able to play in front of you against Roger tomorrow, it will be a huge honour and if not I really hope to see you next year.’
Nadal will take on Federer in the semi-finals on Saturday afternoon should Daniil Medvedev – who was eliminated by Nadal beating Tsitsipas – defeat Alexander Zverev on Friday night.
However, he will be sent home if defending champion Zverev beats Medvedev, with Tsitsipas facing Federer in that scenario.
MORE: Rafael Nadal fights back against Stefanos Tsitsipas to keep hopes of Roger Federer clash alive
