The world no.1 arrived in Rome on Saturday. He is looking forward to beginning his title defence at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia and the challenges that are ahead in the next two months.
“I’m physically fit and ready for the challenges that will come,” said Novak at the Foro Italico. “I’ve had a fantastic time here, especially in 2011. I really feel that this is why I feel really close to the Italian people.”
Nole still leads the rankings with 11,200 points.
“Physically and mentally I am fine. I am where I wanted to be. I am number one in the world and I am winning Grand Slams. I love the challenge and I will now have to work harder to stay where I am.”
Winning the Madrid Masters trophy takes Roger Federer back to no.2 in the world, while Rafael Nadal has dropped to no.3 after two years.
Del Potro and Fish have also swapped places. The Argentine is back to no.9, while the American fell out of top ten to no.11.
ATP top ten as of Monday, May 14:
1. Novak Djokovic (Serbia) 11,200
2. Roger Federer (Switzerland) 9,430
3. Rafael Nadal (Spain) 9,105
4. Andy Murray (Great Britain) 7,500
5. Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (France) 4,930
6. David Ferrer (Spain) 4,460
7. Tomas Berdych (Czech Republic) 4,410
8. Janko Tipsarevic (Serbia) 3,090
9. Juan Martin del Potro (Argentina) 2,970
10. John Isner (USA) 2,725
In the ATP Rankings Race to London list, Novak is at no.1 with 4,320 points, followed by Federer (3,865) and Nadal (3,750).
Photo: Getty Images
