Novak Djokovic thanks Carlos Alcaraz after clinching Paris Olympics gold
What's the story
Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis star, has expressed his gratitude to Carlos Alcaraz following their showdown in the men's singles final at the Paris Olympics 2024. This acknowledgment came during an exhibition match at Flushing Meadows ahead of the US Open 2024. The match featured tennis legends Andre Agassi and John McEnroe, along with Alcaraz and Djokovic. Here we present the details.
Victory path
Djokovic's journey to Olympic gold
Djokovic's path to the Olympic gold was marked by victories over Rafael Nadal, Matthew Ebden, Lorenzo Musetti, Dominik Koepfer, and Stefanos Tsitsipas. In the finale against Alcaraz, Serbia's Djokovic emerged victorious with a score of 7-6(3) 7-6(2). The veteran won his maiden gold at the Olympics and second medal overall (bronze in 2008 Beijing). He had also become the oldest gold medal winner in tennis singles at the Olympics.
Emotional reflection
Djokovic reflects on his Olympic journey
Djokovic, while addressing a full audience at the Arthur Ashe, reflected on his long-awaited Olympic gold. He described it as an incredible journey filled with trials and tribulations. "Yes, I mean I have been waiting for that moment for basically my whole career," he said. He also expressed his gratitude to Alcaraz for allowing him to win the gold medal in their finals clash.
Praise
Djokovic praises Alcaraz and Agassi
Djokovic praised Alcaraz, stating, "He's probably going to have like three golds before he retires." He also commended Agassi for his contributions to the sport and his own achievements including a gold medal and a Golden Slam. Djokovic also expressed his delight at sharing the court with these legends of the game during their exhibition match at Flushing Meadows.
Record holder
Djokovic's impressive tennis record
In addition to his recent gold medal from the Paris Olympics, Djokovic is a bronze medalist from Beijing 2008. He boasts an impressive record of winning 24 Grand Slam men's singles titles, including a record 10 Australian Open (AO) titles. Djokovic is the only man in the sport's history to defend all four majors at once across three different surfaces. With his Olympic gold, Djokovic became only the 13th tennis player to win the Golden Slam