Novak Djokovic admits being written off “can serve as motivation” to win gold at the Paris Olympics

Djokovic is aiming to win his maiden Olympic gold medal in Paris.

Novak Djokovic admits being written off “can serve as motivation” to win gold at the Paris Olympics

Novak Djokovic (via Imago)

Novak Djokovic has struggled to find his best form this season and is surprisingly yet to win a title. He now faces the challenge of turning things around at the Paris Olympics as he aims to clinch the gold medal.

The Serbian began the year strong, reaching the semifinals of the Australian Open, where he lost to World No.1 Jannik Sinner. He had a five-week rest before the Indian Wells Masters, where he ended up winning only one match and exiting in the third round. He was close to reaching his first final at the Monte Carlo but lost to Casper Ruud in the semifinals.

Djokovic’s best run came in Wimbledon, where he reached the final and lost in straight sets to Carlos Alcaraz. Having spoken about the importance of the Olympics all year, he now has to go against all odds and predictions to win his maiden gold medal. However, the 37-year-old believes that being written off will only serve as motivation for him.

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People will always talk about who the favorite is; I haven’t won anything until August, which gives people a reason to write me off. That can serve as motivation for me because I've been written off many times before, and I've always come back. Expectations for the Olympics are high, and I can’t and don’t want to change that.
Novak Djokovic said (via Puntodebreak)

The 24-time Major winner will play Australia’s Matthew Ebden in the first round, with a likely second round clash against Rafael Nadal.

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Novak Djokovic happy with preparations for Paris Olympics

Novak Djokovic has admitted that he was satisfied with his preparations for the Paris Olympics, more than he did heading into Wimbledon. The Serbian arrived at the All England Club after undergoing knee surgery. He showed resilience at the SW19 to reach the final, where he lost in straight sets.

Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic (via Imago)

Djokovic has passed the daunting task of switching from grass to clay for the Paris Olympics and stated that he was looking forward to giving his best on the court.

I felt that because of the softness of the surface, I could adapt to my knee. In the last 4-5 days, I feel more prepared for the Olympics than I was for Wimbledon. I’m looking forward to the start of the tournament.

Novak Djokovic stated (via Puntodebreak)

To ensure he stays at his best for the singles campaign, the Serbian has decided not to play in any form of doubles at the Olympics this year.

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