Novak Djokovic has tied or broken several of Roger Federer's records, and he has done so again with his latest award.
Many used to think that the records amassed by Federer during his career would never be matched. The Swiss legend's 20 Grand Slams and 302 weeks at No. 1 used to be records, and another player overtaking those incredible numbers seemed unlikely.
Yet, that is exactly what Djokovic has done. The Serbian's Grand Slam total stands at an extraordinary 24, he has been the world No. 1 for over 400 weeks and counting, and he tied Federer's total of seven ATP finals this year by winning the event once again.
Those accomplishments mean that Djokovic, who has completed his preseason camp, is no longer just matching Federer's feats directly related to tennis. He is now getting the same recognition from bodies outside the sport of tennis as Federer, and that has led to him tying another Federer record.
The European Sportsperson of the Year is an award presented by the Polish Press Agency. Both male and female sportspeople are eligible to be selected. The award was awarded and first given back in 1958.
Tennis players have been very successful, winning the award on 15 occasions in total. Federer won the award five times, with Rafael Nadal and Iga Swiatek being some of the other players to win the accolade.
Djokovic has now equalled Federer by winning the European Sportsperson of the Year for the fifth time. He was recognized for his incredible 2023 season., with the world No. 1 claiming three Grand Slam titles and the ATP Finals.
Federer, who recently celebrated the 20th anniversary of his Foundation, will always be one of the greatest sportspeople of all time. The unique mark he left on tennis is not tainted by many of his records being taken by Djokovic.
However, those records being tied or toppled by Djokovic shows once again how extraordinary his achievements are. The tennis world should appreciate him while he continues to play.
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