Djokovic wins Paris Masters for the seventh time.

By defeating Grigor Dimitrov 6-4, 6-3 in the final, Novak Djokovic increased his record of ATP 1000 titles to 40.

After three consecutive matches that went to three sets and dealing with stomach problems, Djokovic had an easier time in the final, needing only 98 minutes to defeat Dimitrov. He became the first player in tennis history to reach 40 Masters 1000 titles.

Djokovic (left) lifts the trophy at the Paris Masters, alongside runner-up Dimitrov, at the Accor Arena Center Court on November 5. Photo: AP

"It's unbelievable that I won the title after a tough week," Djokovic said after his victory. "I came back from the brink of defeat on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Today, Dimitrov was a bit out of breath. I think the match wasn't as one-sided as the score suggests. I'm proud of the win after everything I've been through this week."

Dimitrov was in tears after missing out on his second Masters title, and his first since the 2017 ATP Finals. After winning, Nole went to Dimitrov's bench and comforted the Bulgarian player. "I've been in this situation many times when I lost in finals," Djokovic said. "Hopefully he continues to play at a high level, after delivering some of the best tennis this week."

Dimitrov had been in top form over the past month, eliminating Carlos Alcaraz in the fourth round of the Shanghai Masters, then beating Daniil Medvedev, Hubert Hurkacz, and Stefanos Tsitsipas on his way to the final of the Paris Masters. But against Nole, Dimitrov was completely outmatched. He lost three service games and didn't have a single break point throughout the match.

In the first set, Dimitrov made 19 unforced errors while Nole won 88% of his first serve points. The 32-year-old lost momentum after losing his final service game and struggled in the second set. Djokovic won two more break games to secure his 50th victory at the Paris Masters.

Djokovic's 18th consecutive win secured his sixth title of the season. His seven Paris Masters victories also added to his record, as did his 40 Masters 1000 titles. The Serbian player is a strong contender for the number one ranking at the end of the year, currently leading Alcaraz by 1490 points in the Race to Turin rankings.

Vy Anh

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