Paris, France – In a dramatic showdown that will be etched in tennis history, Novak Djokovic captured the elusive Olympic gold medal, defeating the young sensation Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets, 7-6(3), 7-6(2), at the Court Philippe-Chatrier on Sunday.
At 37, the Serbian maestro became the oldest Olympic men’s singles champion, adding the final piece to his already illustrious career.
With this triumph, Djokovic joined a select group of tennis titans – Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams, Andre Agassi, and Steffi Graf – in completing the coveted Golden Slam, a feat that encompasses all four Grand Slam titles and an Olympic gold medal.
The victory was particularly sweet for Djokovic, who has endured Olympic heartbreak in the past, with a bronze medal in Beijing and early exits in London, Rio, and Tokyo.
His previous Wimbledon defeat to Alcaraz added an extra layer of motivation to this final.
“We almost played three hours for two sets. It was an incredible battle, incredible fight,” Djokovic said after the match.
“When the last shot went past him, that was the only moment I actually thought I could win the match. I mean I believed that I could win, but to actually win it, because he keeps on coming back.
He keeps on asking me to play my best tennis. I don’t know what to say. I’m still in shock, honestly. I put my heart, my soul, my body, my family, my everything on the line to win Olympic gold at age 37. I finally did it.”
This Olympic gold is Djokovic’s first title of the year, following a semi-final loss at the Australian Open and a withdrawal from the French Open due to injury.
Despite these setbacks, the Serb has once again proven his dominance on the court.
With this victory, Djokovic’s singles title tally climbs to an astonishing 99, solidifying his position as the most decorated player in tennis history, surpassing the likes of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
Djokovic’s journey to Olympic glory is a testament to his unwavering determination, exceptional talent, and enduring legacy in the sport.
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