Wozniacki: “I realised my dream”

 

Originally published on: 29/10/10 12:09

“2010 has been the most amazing year in my career during which I realised my dream of becoming World No.1,” said a very proud Caroline Wozniacki yesterday. “Capturing the year-end World No.1 ranking is a huge accomplishment for me and I am thrilled that all the hard work has paid off.”

At the age of 20, her feat makes Wozniacki the youngest year-end world No.1 since Martina Hingis in 2000.
 
Stacey Allaster, Chief Executive of the WTA, said: “Finishing the season as the best player in the world is a fantastic achievement and I congratulate Caroline on this tremendous accolade.”

The Dane secured top spot at the beginning of the month following an impressive year on the tour, which included six titles in Ponte Vedra Beach, Copenhagen, Montreal, New Haven, Tokyo and Beijing.

Wozniacki’s style, attitude and athletism on the court has also brought her acclaim from her peers, including Kim Clijsters and Jelena Jankovic.

“I think what Caroline has done is a great achievement,” said Jankovic. “She played very consistently throughout the year. I think in this moment she deserves to be No.1, and the ranking shows.”

Wozniacki has been a stalwart on the tour, competing in 21 events this season which – along with Francesca Schiavone – is higher than any other female inside the top 10.

Despite her consistency on the tour circuit, her Grand Slam performances have not reached the same level in 2010, with Wozniacki’s best showing coming at the US Open, where she reached the last four.

Because of her modest form at the majors, many will question her position at the top of the tree; just like when Dinara Safina and Jankovic climbed to the summit despite not having a Grand Slam to their name.

“To be honest, there will be always sceptics,” said an unfazed Wozniacki. “There are always people saying you’ll never reach the top ten, never reach the top five and you’ll never win a big tournament.

“If you win a Grand Slam, people will say it was a lucky shot or an easy draw. For me, the most important thing is that I know I had a great season.”

With a mature outlook far beyond her tender years, perhaps starting 2011 as the world No.1 will provide the impetus Wozniacki requires to capture that elusive slam.

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