Djokovic will do everything to win 2016 Olympic gold

One of Novak Djokovic’s top priorities for 2016 is to use the momentum he has built over the past two years to mount a strong challenge for a gold medal at the Olympic Games.

The world number one has reached six finals at the last eight grand slams, winning Wimbledon in 2014 and retaining that title in 2015, while also taking out last year’s Australian Open and US Open.

Djokovic won the bronze medal at Beijing in 2008 but missed out on replicating that feat in London four years later, losing to Juan Martin del Potro after failing to reach the final.

But after beginning 2016 with a triumph at the Qatar Open, thumping Rafael Nadal in straight sets as he featured in his 16th consecutive ATP Tour final, the Serbian believes he is primed to achieve success in Rio de Janeiro in August.

“[The Olympics is] definitely right up there at the top of the priorities of this season,” Djokovic told The Telegraph.

“I have already had the very unique experience of representing my country at the Olympics. I was part of two Games, in Beijing and London, and with the way the last couple of seasons have gone for me, I feel I can do very well in Rio.

“The tennis will be played on a hard court, in the middle of the summer, when the conditions will be quite challenging for everybody in terms of heat and humidity.

“I am going to take a week in preparation. That means going there earlier, and becoming used to those conditions so that I can get the best out of myself.”

Djokovic believes the competitive dynamic at the Olympics differs to ATP competitions and he is excited by being part of that once again.

“I am already looking forward to the opening ceremony, and to being alongside some of the best athletes in the world.

“There’s a different dimension to the Olympics: a dimension of pride and honour and passion. I look forward to being part of that energy, absorbing that energy and giving my energy to that.”