London: World No 1 Novak Djokovic captured his fourth successive title, and fifth overall, with a fluent 6-3, 6-4 win over Switzerland’s Roger Federer in the season-ending Barclays ATP World Tour Finals at a jam-packed O2 Arena late on Sunday.
After last Tuesday’s 43rd career meeting between the two, Federer had nosed clear with a 7-5, 6-3 win. But on Sunday the Serb shut out Federer even before he got going.
Djokovic broke as early as the third game and then held for a 3-1 lead. One more break and the 28-year-old had taken the opener 6-3 in 39 minutes.
In the second set, Federer tried to mix up his game even more, rushing to the net at crucial junctures, only to find Djokovic passing him time and again.
After nine games the score stood at 4-5 with the Swiss serving to save the match. But Djokovic took it 6-4 in 41 minutes.
With Sunday’s title, Djokovic became the first man to win four consecutive titles in the 46-year history of the season-ending competition that brings together the top eight players.
“I could not have had a better season than this, and much of the credit should go to my team which is there to support me all the way,” he said pointing towards a beaming Boris Becker, who was celebrating his 47th birthday on Sunday.
“This trophy is for him [Becker]. This is his birthday present,” Djokovic said.
“Thanks to my team I am just trying to enjoy and cherish every moment on court. It is tournaments like these that help me and keep me going towards bigger goals for the future,” he added.
The Serbian has had an amazing 2015 season that included ten titles on the ATP World Tour, of which three were Grand Slams. The only time he fell short was at Roland Garros, where he lost in the final to the other top Swiss, Stan Wawrinka.
By his own standards, Federer was pleased with the way he ended the season. Last year, the Swiss retired before the final to hand Djokovic victory.
“This has been a fantastic week and it is better than not playing at all,” Federer said.
“I tried my best this week and Djokovic has been coming off a fantastic season. It’s tough to keep on going, but I think I am improving,” he added.
“Hope to see you all next year.”
Federer and Djokovic have combined to win 11 of the last 13 season-ending titles between them. The Swiss ace was appearing in a tournament record 10th final and Djokovic his fifth.
