Novak Djokovic wins first Olympic Gold to complete career Golden slam
Novak Djokovic delivered a breathtaking performance to defeat Carlos Alcaraz 7-6 (7-3), 7-6 (7-2) and secure his first Olympic gold medal at the 2024 Paris Games.
This victory also allowed Djokovic to complete a career Golden Slam, joining an elite group of players who have won all four Grand Slam titles and Olympic singles gold.
The match, described as one of the year’s best, was a high-stakes battle where Djokovic overcame Alcaraz in straight sets. The Serbian star, who had previously lost to Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final and had a challenging season, played with determination and skill to clinch the gold.
“I’m overwhelmed with everything I’m feeling right now,” Djokovic said after the match. “I’m feeling different emotions. Too proud. Too happy. Thrilled with the possibility to win a gold for the first time in my career for my country. Arguably the biggest success I had.”
Djokovic, who had previously earned a bronze medal in Beijing 2008, had faced tough competition in the past Olympics, losing to Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, and Alexander Zverev. His triumph in Paris marks a significant achievement in his storied career, which already boasts 24 Grand Slam titles and a record number of weeks at No. 1.
He described winning the gold medal as “unprecedented” and expressed excitement for the future. “I’m super grateful for the blessing to win a historic gold medal for my country. To complete the Golden Slam. To complete all the records.”
In the final, Djokovic and Alcaraz delivered extraordinary tennis, with Djokovic withstanding multiple break points and maintaining his composure under pressure. Djokovic’s victory came as he saved a set point in the first set and then seized the tie-breaks with crucial points.
Alcaraz, who won silver, reflected on the match with pride, despite the loss. “In front of me, I had a really hungry Novak,” the 21-year-old said. “His level was really, really high. He didn’t let me take the chances. I’m really proud and I’m leaving the court with my head really high, knowing that I gave everything that I could.”
Bronze in the men’s singles went to Lorenzo Musetti, while Italy celebrated gold in the women’s doubles with Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini defeating the Russian duo Mirra Andreeva and Diana Shnaider, who competed as neutral athletes.
As Novak Djokovic looks ahead, he has not ruled out competing in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. “I still want to play in Los Angeles,” Djokovic stated. “I enjoy playing for my country and the Olympic Games particularly and Davis Cup, being part of the team.”
