It was almost certain that Jelena Jankovic would end the 2008 season as No.1 in the world, but now we are sure the Serb beat her competition, Dinara Safina and Serena Williams, and will retain the top spot regardless of her result at the season-ending Sony Ericsson Championships in Doha.
Jankovic’s 4,555 points gave her a commanding lead over Safina (3,782) and Williams (3,716).
“It has been a truly amazing year for me,” said the 23-year-old. “Winning four Sony Ericsson WTA Tour titles, over 60 matches and to make it to two semifinals and a final in the Grand Slams of 2008 is a dream come true. I worked really hard this year and to finish No.1 is where I want to be and where I hope to stay.”
Jankovic first reached the No.1 ranking on August 11, but held it for only one week. She then regained it on October 6, after her win at the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix.
Four other players held the top ranking during 2008: the retired Justine Henin (20 weeks), Ana Ivanovic (12), Maria Sharapova (three) and Serena Williams (four).
