SHANGHAI - SERBIA'S Novak Djokovic set his sights on becoming world number one after moving just 10 points behind second-placed Roger Federer in the rankings with his Masters Cup win.

The Serb, on the brink of breaking Federer and Rafael Nadal's three-and-a-half year stranglehold on the top two spots, said being crowned the best men's player was a realistic goal next season.

NEW YORK - DIRK Nowitzki scored seven of his season-high 39 points in overtime and grabbed 15 rebounds as the Dallas Mavericks snapped a five-game losing streak with a 124-114 victory over the New York Knicks on Sunday.

Josh Howard added season highs of 31 points and 14 rebounds. He had a pair of baskets in the extra session for the Mavericks (3-7), who were off to their worst start in a decade.

ATLANTA - TEN-time Olympic medalist Gary Hall Jr has officially retired from swimming to turn his attention to a new challenge: helping those with diabetes lead long, productive lives.

Hall, who suffers from the disease, was expected to leave the sport after just missing out on making his fourth Olympic team. He made it official in conjunction with World Diabetes Day, which was recognised on Friday.