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Serena Williams (Player Profile) has officially secured the end-of-year No. 1 ranking for the third time in her illustrious career.

The American is only the seventh player since the establishment of the computer rankings in 1975 to finish three or more seasons at World No.1, along with elite stars Steffi Graf (eight times), Martina Navratilova (seven times), Chris Evert (five times), Lindsay Davenport (four times), Justine Henin (three times) and Martina Hingis (three times).

“Serena has proven time and time again throughout her career that she is an incredible champion, both on and off the court,” WTA Chairman & CEO Stacey Allaster. “This season she continues to rewrite the record books, proving she is one of the sport’s greatest athletes of all time.”

Williams has put together an outstanding WTA season this year as she compiled a 67-4 record with nine titles including two Grand Slam championships (Rolland Garros & US Open). She became the oldest player ever to achieve the No. 1 ranking when she regained the title in February.

“We are delighted to present Serena with the Year-End No.1 trophy, which signifies the terrific season that she has had in 2013. She is a great champion and we look forward to welcoming her back to Dubai in 2014,” said Salah Tahlak, Tournament Director for the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.

Williams also received a record prize of $3.6 million after her US Open title and accumulated $9,077,322 in prize money in the season so far.