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'Unique and different' Hamilton feels beyond compare

Lewis Hamilton won't compare himself to other successful athletes, insisting he's writing his own "unique" history and achieving his own goals.

Hamilton heads to this week's Brazilian Grand Prix wearing a sixth world crown after wrapping up the championship with Mercedes in Austin.

Hamilton's achievements since his F1 debut with McLaren in 2007 have been underscored by his status as the first black driver to accomplish such outstanding success in the sport.

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While inspired by many sporting champions in various categories, the 34-year-old insists his distinguished realizations are his own, dismissing any comparisons.

"I don't ever try to compare myself to anybody," Hamilton said, alluding to the exploits of, among others, golfer Tiger Woods.

"I'm a fan of a lot of athletes out there who are doing great things.

"It's inspiring to see certain things, seeing Tiger come away recently. Everyone wrote him off years and years ago and said he would never win again.

"It's incredible to see him come back. It just shows you how much of a great athlete he is. I can't wait for his book or story to come out one day."

Hamilton also counted 23-time Grand Slam winner and friend Serena Williams among those who have inspired the F1 star.

"That's inspiring. You see Serena having success and going through difficult times," he added.

"It's nice to see her coming back strong. But I don't compare myself to anyone, even here [in F1].

"I'm different and unique in my own way, trying to create history and achieve my goals."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.