ATP World Tour Finals: Novak Djokovic honors Paris terror victims

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Novak Djokovic leads tributes to Paris terror victims

Serb defeats Kei Nishikori of Japan at ATP Tour World Finals

CNN  — 

Novak Djokovic led tributes to the victims of the Paris terror attacks at the ATP World Tour Finals on Sunday.

The Serb dismantled Kei Nishikori 6-1 6-1 in just 54 minutes to secure an opening match victory and ensure he will end the year as the world’s top ranked player.

And upon receiving the ATP World No 1. trophy to celebrate the feat on court after the match, Djokovic asked to say a few extra word’s to the crowd.

“All my heart goes to the families of the lost ones. It’s really devastating to see those images,” he said before asking the crowd to join him in a round of applause.

Djokovic and Nishikori had already bowed for a minute’s silence at the beginning of the match at London’s O2 Arena as the red white and blue of the French tricolore illuminated advertising hoardings and big screens around the venue.

Tournament organizers had earlier announced that there would be heightened security around the season-finale in light of events in the French capital.

Extra searches and bag checks met fans as they entered the O2 Sunday.

Novak’s ‘peak time’

There was a familiarity about events on the court, however, with Djokovic exhibiting the same devastating form that has seen him dominate men’s tennis throughout 2015.

The Serb moved his rival around the court with consummate ease in the first set, breaking twice and losing just 14 points.

Another break at the start of the second put Djokovic firmly in control.

And although Nishikori held his second service game of the set it would be the last bright spot on a thoroughly dispiriting afternoon for the Japanese player.

By securing the end of year number one spot, Djokovic became only the sixth player to achieve the feat on four occasions.

“It’s the best season, best year of my life,” Djokovic said. “I’ve been experiencing some … peak time right now and everything got together.

“I’ve had lots of success, but 2011 and 2015 definitely stand out. I’m looking back with great pride and joy. My team definitely plays a part in this.”

Federer beats Berdych

In Sunday’s other singles match at the ATP World Tour Finals, Roger Federer defeated Tomas Berdych 6-4 6-2.

The Swiss dropped his opening service game but broke straight back before adding the decisive break in the ninth game on his way to the set.

Federer then notched up another break in the first and third games of the second set to ensure there was little chance of a Berdych comeback.

Monday will see Andy Murray, Roger Federer, Stan Wawrinka and David Ferrer make their bow at the season ending event.