Roger Federer’s title run in Basel has further fueled talk, and belief, that he could reclaim the ATP’s year-end No 1 ranking for the first time since 2009. With Federer within 490 points of Djokovic in the race to London and 2500 points on offer in the next two events, the 33-year-old is within striking distance of his rival and could pass him at the conclusion of the World Tour Finals in November, but to do so he’ll have to significantly outperform the world no. 1—no small task.

More: Federer Wins Sixth Basel Title

If Federer were able to accomplish the feat, he’d become the oldest No. 1 in ATP history; If Djokovic is able to hold him off the Serb would claim the No. 1 year-end slot for the third time in the last four years.

Regardless of how it turns out, Federer, who leads the tour in wins, top ten wins and final appearances this season, is excited to have created the opportunity with his torrid play. "It would be very special to reclaim No. 1,” the 17-time Grand Slam champion said after winning his sixth Basel crown on Sunday. “World No. 1 is what it's all about in our game.”

He added: “With the year I have had and the amount of finals I have played, the level of tennis I have played, I am pleased to see that I have a shot.”

The Swiss is no stranger to breaking rankings-related records. He holds the longest streak of consecutive weeks at No. 1 (237) as well as the most cumulative weeks at No. 1 (302).

He has held the ATP’s top spot on three different occasions, and last held the No. 1 ranking from July 9, 2012 to November 4, 2012.

Federer, who has captured the ATP’s year-end No. 1 ranking five times, is sanguine about his chances but realistic about them as well.

“Having a shot and being there is two separate things,” he said. “I am sure that Novak is going to come in very motivated, just after having a baby. I am very happy for him. There are clearly interesting weeks ahead."

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Both Federer and Djokovic will participate in this week's Paris Masters. After a first-round bye, Djokovic could face Philipp Kohlschreiber or Edouard Roger-Vasselin, while Federer could face Jeremy Chardy or Kenny De Schepper after his bye.

Photo Source: Roger Federer Facebook