Rafael Nadal finishes as year-end No. 1 in ATP Rankings
What's the story
Rafael Nadal might have bowed out of the ongoing ATP Finals in London. However, he went on to secure the number one spot in the year-end rankings for a fifth time. The Spaniard received his ATP Tour No. 1 trophy from ATP Executive Chairman and President Chris Kermode. Here are further details on Nadal and his achievement.
Support
Nadal thanks one and all for the tremendous support
"This trophy is an achievement for all year round, so personally today I can't thank you all enough for all the support for this match [today] and all the time I have been playing here in London," said Nadal, during the on-court ceremony. "I would like to thank, because it's something I really feel from the bottom of my heart," he added.
Number one
Nadal enjoyed a terrific 2019 campaign
Nadal had earlier replaced Novak Djokovic as the world number one on November 4. He enjoyed a stellar season, capturing four titles. He pocketed two Grand Slams and two ATP Masters 1000s. The Spaniard has compiled a 53-7 match record in 2019, following his victory on Friday over Stefanos Tsitsipas. At 33, Nadal is the oldest player to finish year-end No. 1.
Records
Records scripted by Nadal after lifting fifth trophy
He had previously finished atop in 2008, 2010, 2013 and 2017. Nadal became the first player to hold, lose and regain the year-end No. 1 on four occasions. He is now the first player to finish No. 1 five times in non-consecutive years. Nadal equaled Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Jimmy Connors in terms of finishing at the pinnacle of men's professional tennis.
Quote
Nadal in disbelief after lifting trophy
"I am super happy," said Nadal. "Honestly, after all the things that I went through in my career, in terms of injury, I never thought that at the age of 33 and a half, I would have this trophy in my hands again."
ATP Finals
Nadal bowed out of ATP Finals despite beating Tsitsipas
Nadal had defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 7-5 in his final round-robin match at the London O2 Arena. However, defending champion Alexander Zverev's win against Daniil Medvedev meant he had to exit the tournament before the semi-final stage. Zverev enjoyed a 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) win which helped him qualify for the semi-finals from Group Andre Agassi alongside Tsitsipas.