Novak Djokovic on the verge of breaking long-running Steffi Graf record

The Serbian, who recently captured a historic 10th Australian Open title in Melbourne to return to the rankings summit, is just two weeks away from drawing level with German great Steffi Graf, who held the top spot for a record 377 weeks.

Djokovic already holds the record as the longest-reigning men's number one, and it looks likely he will go on to break Graf's record and become the all-time record holder.

The 35-year-old is not in action this week but returns to the court the week after for the Dubai Tennis Championships, where he will have points to defend.

However, he only reached the last eight last year in his first tournament back since the drama of his Australian Open deportation and shouldn't have much trouble equaling that feat.

Following his latest Grand Slam triumph, Djokovic declined to declare himself the GOAT, or greatest of all time ahead of the likes of Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.

"No, no, look, first I have to say that, I am so honoured and privileged to be in this discussion, first," Djokovic said.

"Second, I truly honour and admire the history and all the greats that paved the way for all of us to be here where we are. I feel like it's difficult to have a conversation about this because every generation is different.

"You know, 30, 40 years ago you played three out of four slams on the grass with wooden racquets. Technology has advanced so much. Things have changed. Hard to compare generations.

"But I feel like I gave my best really and I'm still doing that. So if the people see me as one of the greatest players to ever play the game, I'm very grateful."

The article Novak Djokovic on the verge of breaking long-running Steffi Graf record appeared first on Planetsport.com.