Novak Djokovic sealing eighth year end World No.1 now secure after Carlos Alcaraz loss in Shanghai
Tennis NewsThursday, 12 October 2023 at 11:51
Carlos Alcaraz had a mission in heading to Asia for the Chinese hard court swing and that was to potentially return to World No.1 and end as Year End No.1, but that mission is over for the time being.
Alcaraz lost out to Grigor Dimitrov on Wednesday afternoon in the biggest win of the year and another exhibit of the terrific form of the Bulgarian, but also handed Novak Djokovic a boost without the imperious Serb even playing.
Djokovic will only play the Paris Masters, ATP Finals and Davis Cup Finals as per his schedule to end the year, with one of those in particular holding the key.
Famously, Djokovic lost at Paris Bercy last year to Holger Rune, but he will head there with nothing to lose in terms of the top ranking. It is now assured that he won't be surpassed in the ATP Race before the Paris Masters and will end the year as World No.1 for an eighth year.
But of course, defending the Australian Open can also hand the keys to Alcaraz early next year. Despite the mooted rumors that Alcaraz will not play any warm-up tournaments that would give him a helping hand, with that the next chapter of the burgeoning rivalry will be born.
With Djokovic's Grand Slam schedule being as it is with limited warm-up tournaments and playing a smaller schedule, Alcaraz will get chances to overtake him. But it seemed in the end, the US Open did hold the key to this being ticked off in favour of Djokovic this time around.
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
claps 5visitors 3
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- No one else would get away with this but these AMERCANS! It’s the US Open!! In America!! But sure, go off American ;)DaveyWavey08-09-2026
- WOW !!! Her comebacks have been intense. She's Baaaaack!
mandoist08-09-2026 - Don't lay this shitshow on "Americans". It is a long-running Ego trip with WTA allowing these two Elitists 'in need of a Camera' illicit Wildcards. If these two clowns want to "perform" -- then play the qualies.mandoist08-09-2026
- Here we go again…. Different rules for Americans! Especially THESE Americans. Yuck!DaveyWavey07-09-2026
- It almost feels like they’re on their own “Legacy Tour” by playing these events … but losing each one! No press = $$$ fineDaveyWavey07-09-2026
- Love to listen to Mirra. However, I'm worried about her eyesight if she thinks oversized lips is "pretty".mandoist06-09-2026
- One of the most amazing comebacks in a long, long time. It happens (and Keys shouldn't lose her crackers over this). If Madison starts playing Dress-up and walking out on court like some fantasy character with a Mental Problem... then she should really start worrying!mandoist06-09-2026
- STOP the "Look at Me" Tour now... and forever!!mandoist05-09-2026
- This article is SPOT ON!!!Rapunzel04-09-2026
- This article is SPOT ON!!!Rapunzel04-09-2026
Loading