NOVAK DJOKOVIC’S U.S Open title allowed him to clinch the year-end No. 1 ranking for the fourth time.

    The ATP announced Monday, a day after Djokovic’s 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4 victory over No. 2 Roger Federer in the final at Flushing Meadows, that the 28-year-old Serbian would add 2015 to 2011, 2012 and 2014 as seasons he finished atop the rankings.

    “Knowing I will end the year at No. 1 keeps my mind relaxed,” Djokovic said in an interview with U.S. media. “I have achieved a lot so far in the season, and I hope I can deliver the same game for the rest of the year.”

    He is 63-5 with seven titles, including three at Grand Slam tournaments, and has reached the final at each of his past 11 events.

    Djokovic beat Andy Murray in the Australian Open final, lost to Stan Wawrinka in the French Open final, then beat Federer in the finals at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open.

    Djokovic is currently in his third stay at No. 1, for a total of 164 weeks, the sixth most in the history of the computer rankings that began in 1973. Federer holds the record of 302.

    There wasn’t much movement at the top of the ATP rankings Monday, although Marin Cilic, last year’s U.S. Open champion, went from No. 9 to No. 14 after losing to Djokovic in the semifinals. Kei Nishikori, the 2014 runner-up, slid two spots to No. 6 after a first-round exit at Flushing Meadows.

    Serena Williams remained at No. 1 — like Djokovic, she already is assured of finishing the year in the top spot — followed by No. 2 Simona Halep, No. 3 Maria Sharapova and No. 4 Petra Kvitova.

    Djokovic may never be the people’s champion, but with a 10th Grand Slam title wrapped up and his rivals flagging, the Serb is on course to be the sport’s greatest player.

    The 28-year-old became only the eighth man in history to reach double digits in totals of Slams won and now stands just seven behind the record of Federer.

    It may seem a huge target to chase, but Djokovic is six years younger than Federer.

    “I’m so flattered and honored to be a part of an elite group of players, legends of our sports to manage to win this many Grand Slam trophies,” said Djokovic, who is just one shy of going level with Bjorn Borg on 11 majors.

    “So to be just mentioned alongside them is truly something special.

    “I’m 28. I have always valued the care for my body, and my mind and had this holistic approach to life.”

    (SD-Agencies)