Roger Federer finished the year as the world No. 1 five times: in 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2009. His first four year-end No. 1 finishes formed an uninterrupted run from 2004 through 2007.
Federer’s first year-end top ranking came during his breakthrough period at the summit of men’s tennis. In 2004 he won three Grand Slam singles titles and established himself as the sport’s dominant player. He retained the ranking through 2005, 2006 and 2007, adding multiple Wimbledon and US Open championships.
Federer returned to year-end No. 1 in 2009 after winning the French Open for the first time, completing his career Grand Slam. That season also included another Wimbledon title and a record-breaking 15th major championship at the time.
The figure five is often confused with related statistics. Federer spent 310 total weeks ranked No. 1, including a record 237 consecutive weeks, but those numbers measure time at the top rather than calendar-year finishes. His five year-end No. 1 seasons remain one of the defining achievements of his career.