Novak Djokovic extends record as world No. 1 after win at Madrid Open

By Ben Morse, CNN

Updated 1025 GMT (1825 HKT) May 4, 2022

Novak Djokovic players during his match against Gael Monfils during the Madrid Open.

(CNN)Novak Djokovic guaranteed his record-breaking time at the top of tennis' world rankings would continue after his second-round win at the Madrid Open.

The Serbian star beat Gaël Monfils 6-3 6-2 on Tuesday, guaranteeing he would remain as world No. 1 for a record-extending 369th week. The win also extended his perfect record over the Frenchman to 18 from as many matches, meaning he becomes the first man in the Open era to hold an 18-0 ATP head-to-head against an opponent. Djokovic will now face three-time grand slam winner Andy Murray in the last 16 after the British player stunned Denis Shapovalov 6-1 3-6 6-2. Tennis star Marta Kostyuk asks 'What am I living for?' as Ukrainians grapple with the toll of Russia's invasion«I don't have any explanation for that, I just try to approach it like any other match,» Djokovic said of the record against Monfils. Read More«I guess his game is suitable to my game in terms of playing style. But we've had some very close matchups. The last time we played in Dubai he had match points, so that could have easily broken the record.»I don't think about that too much. For me mentally, this is a very important win."Although Monfils showed why he's one of the most entertaining players to watch, once 20-time grand slam champion Djokovic saved three break points early on, Monfils never troubled Djokovic at the Manolo Santana Stadium. Monfils won the winner count, 18 to 11, but Djokovic showed his experience and know-how. Playing in just his fourth tournament since returning from a tumultuous time away from tennis, Djokovic is still working his way to