He’s done it! Roger Federer has become the oldest man in tennis to ascend to the world No.1 ranking.

The Rolex Shanghai Masters titleholder had to reach the semi-finals in Rotterdam to achieve the milestone and he did by defeating Dutch player Robin Haase 4-6, 6-1, 6-1.

“I think reaching No.1 is one of, if not, the ultimate achievement in our sport,” Federer said. “When you are older you have to put in double the work, so may be this one means the most to me throughout my career … getting to No.1 at 36, almost 37 years old, is an absolute dream come true. I can’t believe it.

“It’s been a long road and sometimes windy, but feels surreal to be back at the top. I’m just happy to be healthy and playing tennis everyday.”

Federer takes over from Andre Agassi as the oldest man to become world No.1 and in doing so Federer has also set a record for the longest gap between stints as world No.1 … over five years. He last held the top spot in November, 2012.

Agassi Tweeted: “Well deserved”.

Federer will also extend his record of 302 weeks at No.1 when he officially takes back the top place on 19 February, 2018.