Andy Lapthorne was delighted to achieve a lifelong dream as he became world number one for the first time.

The three-time Paralympic medallist overtook Australia’s Dylan Alcott to claim the number one singles ranking with 3,429 points just days before the Australian Open.

The wheelchair tennis player, who plays in the quad division, bowed out at the semi-final stage in both the Tweed Heads International and Melbourne Open but accrued enough points to climb to the summit.

After the rankings were confirmed, the 29-year-old couldn’t contain his excitement and took to social media to thank his support team.

“Well, what a way to start my week here at the Australian Open,” Lapthorne said. “Number one in the world in singles for the first time in my career today.

“It feels unbelievable to achieve a lifelong dream especially after such a tough start to the year last year.

“Without the support of family and friends especially those closest to me, I would never have achieved this. After being close so many times they stopped me from quitting.

“To everyone that’s helped me in a professional environment it feels great to repay all the faith. On top of the mountain, never give up on your dreams.”

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