Novak Djokovic's coach Boris Becker believes Andy Murray's victory at the French Open was the moment he began his surge for the world number one spot.
Murray usurped Djokovic to the summit of men's tennis last month after his Wimbledon title in July was followed by a 24-match winning streak.
Becker, whose future with Djokovic is uncertain, says Murray deserved to leapfrog his student to become the best player in the world.
"The first time I noticed a difference [in Murray] was this year at the French Open," Becker told The Times . "On his least-favorite surface, getting to the final, what are you doing? You are on our tail now. All of a sudden he wins the first set in the final, it's like, 'Holy s**t, this is getting close'
"Unbelieveable respect and credit for him and his team. You don't become number one by accident, it's not just a blip in the system. You earn your position and he's earned it. The consistency throughout the year made him the number one players in the world. My hat's off to him."
Related: Novak Djokovic's Father on How He Made His Son A Multiple Grand Slam Champion
Murray has been shortlisted for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, with the winner announced on December 18.
The Scot is on a 16-person shortlist that also includes long-distance runner Mo Farah, boxer Nicola Adams and triathlete Alistair Brownlee.
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