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Novak Djokovic eyeing return to the top of men’s singles tennis

By Harry Floyd

LONDON, ENGLAND - JULY 12: Novak Djokovic of Serbia plays a backhand during the Gentlemen's Singles quarter final match against Tomas Berdych of The Czech Republic on day nine of the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 12, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - JULY 12: Novak Djokovic of Serbia plays a backhand during the Gentlemen's Singles quarter final match against Tomas Berdych of The Czech Republic on day nine of the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 12, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images) /
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Novak Djokovic appears strong in his recovery this offseason. The Serbian tennis star could threaten to retake the No. 1 ranking in 2018.

Novak Djokovic is entering a new era in his career.

After pulling out of the 2017 ATP World Tour during play at Wimbledon, the Serbian tennis star has been recovering and is eyeing his return to the sport. The world No. 1 ranking is not as far away as it may seem for the twelve-time Grand Slam champion.

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In 2016, Djokovic claimed two Grand Slam titles. Since then, he has seen changes to his team, rumors about his personal life, and battled injuries on the court. Throughout it all, however, the Serbian great has continued along the path that made him one of the best in the sport.

Novak Djokovic will battle the best in men’s tennis to earn back the No. 1 ranking in 2018.

Injuries have forced several top players in men’s singles tennis out of the 2017 ATP World Tour early. Many are now recovering and appearing in fine form.

With action in Australia right around the corner, players such as Nole are looking to get back on top of the rankings. Despite his withdrawal during Wimbledon action, Djokovic ends the year as the world No. 12 in men’s singles tennis. He is well within striking distance to begin his fight for the top ranking. Among his twelve Grand Slam titles, six have come at Melbourne Park. He will undoubtedly be a favorite at the Australian Open.

Next: Top 10 Men's Singles Players

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Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal took charge on the 2017 ATP World Tour. Splitting Grand Slam titles, the two tennis great saw a resurgence in the sport. The absence of former world No. 1’s Djokovic and Andy Murray down the stretch allowed the two veterans to end the year in the top singles positions.

Novak Djokovic continues his offseason recovery and preparations. The former world No. 1 is a fan favorite and arguably already one of the greatest to play the sport. His return to the ATP World Tour is much anticipated as he will likely come out strong in the early months of next year. Stay tuned to see how the Serbian tennis star fares in early 2018 ATP World Tour action.

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