Djokovic Says Return to Top Spot More Special After Tough Year

Djokovic Says Return to Top Spot More Special After Tough Year
Serbia's Novak Djokovic in action during his round of 32 match against Czech Republic's Tomas Machac during the Dubai Tennis Championships in the Dubai duty free tennis center, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on Feb. 28, 2023. Rula Rouhana/Reuters
Reuters
Updated:

Novak Djokovic said his return to the top of the world rankings felt like a big achievement after a year of turmoil where he had to skip several tournaments including two Grand Slams, but the Serbian expects a see-sawing battle for the position in 2023.

Djokovic missed the 2022 Australian Open and was deported from the country due to being unvaccinated against COVID-19 before returning this year to clinch a record-extending 10th title at Melbourne Park and 22nd major to reclaim the number one spot.