- Djokovic set to end year as world number one
- Winning streak extended to 19 after tough test against Rune
- Alcaraz and Medvedev in action today
Novak Djokovic is set to conclude the year as the world number one for an unprecedented eighth time following his victory over Holger Rune at the ATP Finals in Turin, Italy.
Check out the best ATP Finals betting sites with Betting.com.
Djokovic pushed by Rune but winning streak goes on
The 24-time Grand Slam champion triumphed over the Danish player with a 7-6 (7-4), 6-7 (1-7), 6-3 win in his opening match of the Green Group on Sunday. Djokovic’s latest triumph extends his winning streak to 19 consecutive matches.
At 36 years old, the Serbian player secured three Grand Slam victories in 2023, setting a new men’s record with a total of 24 career major titles.
In an earlier match on the same day, local favorite and fourth seed Jannik Sinner defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4, 6-4.
Djokovic’s frustration reached a boiling point early in the third set when he smashed two racquets at a change of ends. Despite this display of emotion, Djokovic managed to regain his composure, break Rune for a second time, and ultimately close out the contest in a match that lasted a little over three hours.
Rune, making his debut at the ATP Finals, initially took the lead with a break to go up 3-2 before Djokovic fought back, ultimately winning the opening set tie-break. Rune continued his strong performance, winning a set in every previous meeting with Djokovic, and levelled the game in a second-set tie-break.
Djokovic’s victory positions him on track for a seventh ATP Finals title, potentially making him the record holder, surpassing Roger Federer’s tally of six achieved last year. Djokovic’s consistent success and recent achievements solidify his status as one of the greatest tennis players in history.
Betting Implications
Djokovic remains favourite to win the tournament. At the time of writing Unibet have him priced at 21/20 ahead of Sinner who also won yesterday and is currently 3/1.
Today’s action sees Carlos Alcaraz take on Alexander Zverev, with Unibet making the Spaniard a strong favourite at 4/9. Daniil Medvedev will play Andrey Rublev with Medvedev favourite at 1/2 with Unibet.
Check out the best tennis betting sites with Betting.com.
For more on the ATP Finals check out our preview.
