Carlos Alcaraz lauds ‘hungry for gold’ Novak Djokovic for coming out on top of him at Paris Olympics Men’s singles final

Novak Djokovic was just too hot to handle for Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz at the 2024 Paris Olympics gold medal match.

Carlos Alcaraz lauds ‘hungry for gold’ Novak Djokovic for coming out on top of him at Paris Olympics Men’s singles final

Carlos Alcaraz has admitted that Novak Djokovic was hungry for the singles gold medal after losing to the Serbian in the final of the Paris Olympics. The Spaniard played his best but couldn’t withstand Djokovic’s clinical display, losing 6-7, 6-7 to settle for silver.

Alcaraz has been in brilliant form since claiming his first title of the year at Indian Wells in March. He consolidated his place in the history books of the sport by winning the French Open and Wimbledon. Arriving at the French capital for the Summer Games with just one loss in 16 matches, he had also won all his matches at the Roland Garros court without dropping a set.

YouTube video

In the final, against Djokovic, he was the favorite having never lost an important tournament final. However, he was surprised to witness the beast-mode Djokovic, as the Serbian gave him little chance to control the match. Though Alcaraz found rhythm in the second set, hitting with maddening groundstrokes and forehand, it wasn’t enough to beat Djokovic.

FS Video

The 21-year-old was in tears after hugging Djokovic in the net, as he failed to claim the gold. After the match, he admitted he gave everything in the match but Djokovic was very impressive and more hungry for the victory.

I had a very impressive Novak Djokovic in front of me, a hungry Novak. He didn't let me take my chance. I tried everything. I fought until the last ball. I gave everything I had. Obviously, when you lose like that, you leave the court happy, you leave the court proud.
Carlos Alcaraz said after the match

Alcaraz was proud to claim the only medal for Spain’s Tennis contingent. He will be looking forward to the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, by then he will be 25, with more top experience.

RELATED
“We don’t dwell on things…” Iga Swiatek’s dad gives his honest opinion daughter’s ‘underwhelming’ performance at Paris Olympics 2024
Iga Swiatek and her father Tomasz Swiatek

Novak Djokovic admits winning a singles gold medal is the biggest sporting success of his career

Novak Djokovic was emotional after winning the singles final match as he unfurled a Serbia flag running to the stands to celebrate with his family and team. He admitted that winning the gold medal was the biggest sporting success of his career.

Djokovic’s only bronze medal came in Beijing 2008 but craved gold in three editions of the Olympics after that, but failed to finish at the podium. He was excited after fulfilling his dreams of winning gold for Serbia.

Novak-Djokovic-gold-medal-Paris-Olympics
Novak Djokovic (via Imago)
This is probably the biggest sporting success I have ever had and the most special feeling. I thought carrying the flag at the opening ceremony for my country at the 2012 Olympics was the best feeling an athlete could have until today.
Novak Djokovic said after his win

Hopefully, Djokovic can use this confidence to win titles in the summer hard-court season, including the US Open.

In case you missed it: