Review: tennis’ big four in 2012

A sensational year in men’s tennis is drawing to a close, which has featured four separate Grand Slam winners and once again been dominated by the big four: Novak Djoković, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray.

Champion | Novak Djoković lifts the ATP World Tour Finals trophy at the 02 Arena earlier this month. (Image | Yahoo)

With the ATP World Tour Finals having been won by the Serb earlier this month, it is time to look back on how each of the leading lights performed over the calendar year. It has been quite a 12 months after all.

Novak Djoković

After a record-breaking season last year, it would have been extremely optimistic to expect Djoković to remain at such an auspicious standard.

However, in the early part of the year, it appeared that he may be able to surpass his previous achievements. Particularly when the 25-year-old triumphed at the Australian Open in January, which was arguably the greatest tournament Melbourne has ever seen.

ATP World Tour: Djokovic fells Federer in epic final

Champion | Novak Djokovic stopped Roger Federer making it three ATP World Tour wins in a row at the O2 Arena. (Image | The Times)

World number one Novak Djokovic reclaimed his place at the pinnacle of tennis with a straight sets win over Roger Federer last night in a magnificent final lasting more than two hours.

The Serbian, who despite his ranking has had an altogether disappointing year, reminded fans everywhere just why he is its leading light in the (7-6, 7-5) triumph.

For there had been some debate after he went to the French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open and returned empty-handed having set the pace early on in Australia.