Novak Djokovic has revealed he considers winning the gold medal at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris his “greatest sports achievement.”
The legendary Serb reflected that he “secretly believed” he could win despite his difficult season and described his run as “one of my best tournaments.”
Djokovic overcame Carlos Alcaraz in two intense and high-quality sets in the final of the Olympics on Court-Philippe Chatrier at Stade Roland Garros to claim his first gold medal.
The 37-year-old was competing in his fifth Olympics, having won his only previous medal, a bronze, on his Games debut in Beijing in 2008.
An Olympic gold medal was the only significant prize the 24-time Grand Slam champion had not won in his astonishing career — and he has now completed the set of big titles.
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Djokovic did not drop a set during his sensational run in Paris as he claimed his 99th career singles title and first since the 2023 ATP Finals in November.
Speaking in front of a massive crowd gathered in Belgrade to celebrate Serbia’s Olympians, Djokovic recognised it could have been his last chance to win a gold medal as he labelled it his finest achievement.
“The long-awaited gold. I entered these Olympics without a trophy, I had an injury. Many questioned the quality of my tennis. Few people considered me a favourite, but I secretly believed,” the world No 2 declared.
“I knew this might be my last chance to win gold. It was one of my best tournaments; I didn’t lose a set. I felt the support of the people.
“If there was ever a moment, it was now. Without false modesty, this is my greatest sports achievement, and I proudly carry this gold for Serbia.”
Hamad Medjedovic, a 21-year-old Serbian player, gave an insight into the way the people of Belgrade reacted when Djokovic defeated Alcaraz in the gold medal match.
“I remember when Djokovic and Alcaraz were playing, all the streets were empty. You could only hear the screams, the voices of people screaming,” the world No 139 told ATPTour.com.
“I think that in recent years, in sporting terms, this is the greatest result we have achieved. Everyone was waiting for him to win. Obviously, he did everything, except that one. We were all very happy after his victory.”
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