05/12/2008 12:08 PM
Novak Djokovic believes it is possible for him to claim the world No.1 spot in 2009.
Currently third in the ATP rankings, the Serb is just 10 points behind second-placed Roger Federer, with Rafael Nadal the present world leader.
However, the 21-year-old feels the order could well change in the coming months.
"Being No.1 in the ATP rankings is always my goal and I think it's reachable. I have enough quality to get there, but I must be careful not to forget my priorities in trying to achieve that goal," he said.
"I have to concentrate on all those little things that one needs to do to reach the goal. I'm a perfectionist and always want to do better. I have room for improvement, and that's good. I have high ambitions, and I want to continue with good results and games, especially in major tournaments."
Djokovic's ability to perform in the Grand Slam events was impressive in 2008 - he won the Australian Open and made the semis at both Roland Garros and the US Open. His only failure came at Wimbledon where he suffered a second-round exit.
He also finished the season by winning the Masters Cup, so if he is to become world No.1 it appears performing better at some of the 'lesser' events could be a key factor.
"The way I started the season, I believe everyone thought I would finish it as No.1 in the ATP rankings, but it didn't happen," Djokovic continued.
"The pressure is stronger now. I have to defend a Grand Slam title for the first time in Melbourne, and it will be a new experience for me."
While keeping his sights looking up, Djokovic also admits he expects players currently ranked below him to keep on improving - including Briton Andy Murray.
"In front of me I have two players that are amongst the best in the history of tennis, and we must not forget Murray and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga who had injury problems last season," he said.