A timeline of Andy Murray’s rise to No. 1

What a journey it’s been.

When the next ATP World Tour rankings are released come Monday, there will be a new name leading the way. Andy Murray has followed in the footsteps of his fellow members of the “Big 4”—Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal—and reached the game’s pinnacle.

Here’s a timeline documenting the milestones—and setbacks—Murray encountered on his way to the top.

2002

A teenage Murray goes to train at the Casal-Sanchez Academy in Spain for 18 months.

September 2004

At the junior edition of the US Open, Murray wins the title, beating Sergiy Stakhovsky in the finals.

March 2005

Murray makes his Davis Cup debut against Israel, winning a doubles rubber.

June 2005

More firsts: Match wins on the main tour come in the Queen’s Club tournament on grass; he also wins two rounds at Wimbledon.

August 2005

At the US Open, Murray qualifies and advances to the second round.

September–October 2005

With a ranking of No. 109 entering the Thailand Open, Murray makes his first final, losing to Roger Federer.

February 2006

He becomes No. 1! (Well, a different one): Murray becomes the top-ranked British player, ahead of Tim Henman and Greg Rusedski. He also wins his first career title in San Jose.