Rafael Nadal of Spain will regain the world number one ranking at the end of the year and beat out current number one Novak Djokovic, marking a remarkable comeback for the 13-time Grand Slam champion who last held the top spot in July 2011.
Nadal's amazing feat was accomplished when his opponent, Tomas Berdych, retired at the China Open last October 5 giving the Spaniard the needed finals appearance in the tournament to edge out rival Djokovic even if the latter retains the title on Sunday, October 6.
"Sure is special be back to the top position of the ranking after more than a half year without playing tennis," he was quoted by Yahoo! Sports. He was also quoted as citing that the accomplishment capped off one of the best years of his career. "I felt during all the season very excited every time I go on court."
Nadal's rise to the top means Djokovic will end his 101st week as the top-ranked player in the world. It also marks a steady improvement for the Spanish who was sidelined for most part of the past year with a knee injury. He has remained unbeated since losing in the first round of the Wimbledon last June.
Still in the prime of his career at the age of 27, Nadal is also eyeing to break the record of 17 Grand Slam titles of Roger Federer. He says he needs to take care of his health in the next four years if he is to beat Federer's record.
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