Novak Djokovic recognizes Carlos Alcaraz’s epic level against him during “El clasico” gold medal match at Paris Olympics
After his first Olympic gold, Novak Djokovic lauded Carlos Alcaraz for his game and is confident of seeing him win the gold in future.
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Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic (Images via Imago)
Novak Djokovic grabbed his first gold medal for Serbia in the Olympics after he beat Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets 7-6(7-3), 7-6(7-2) in the final on Court Philippe-Chatrier on Sunday (August 4). A day later, Djokovic praised the youngster’s game and wished him good luck in the future.
In the epic battle between the oldest and youngest players in Olympic singles, Djokovic forgot his straight sets loss to Alcaraz in 2024 Wimbledon to come out on top in his possible last appearance in the quadrennial tournament. The gold medal made Djokovic the only fifth player to achieve the career Golden Slam, while Alcaraz settled for the silver in his Olympics debut. Even though Djokovic won the elusive gold, he was in awe of Alcaraz’s game and was confident of seeing the Spaniard win his gold medal.
A quick shoutout to @carlitosalcarazz. Another epic final, my friend. El clasico. Congratulations to you and your team for an excellent Olympics. Considering your age, your energy, and the way you play, you probably have 20 more Olympics ahead of you. Your gold will come. Until next time, amigo.Novak Djokovic wrote on Instagram
Alcaraz also played in doubles with 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal. They reached the quarterfinals where the American pair of Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram defeated them in straight sets. Later, Krajicek and Ram reached the final and won the silver medals.
Olympic gold was Novak Djokovic’s biggest achievement of his career
After tasting victories in 24 Grand Slam finals, Novak Djokovic suffered a slump in form earlier in 2024. He missed tournament after tournament, featuring in just the important ones, including the Grand Slam events.
At Roland Garros, the meniscus tear forced him to withdraw from the quarterfinals, while at Wimbledon, he reached his first final of the season. This year, in several interviews, he had expressed his desire to add an Olympic gold to his trophy cabinet and as he won the medal, he experienced how it feels when an athlete stands on the podium after winning the gold.
Being on that court with the Serbian flag raised, singing the Serbian anthem, with the gold around my neck, I think nothing can beat that in terms of professional sport. It definitely stands out as the biggest sporting achievement I have had.Novak Djokovic said after the match
He has also expressed his wish to play in the 2028 Los Angeles Games, where he will be 41 years old.
In case you missed!
- “I leave with an incredible silver,” Gracious in defeat, Carlos Alcaraz leaves Paris with his ‘head held high’
- ‘Hopeful’ Carlos Alcaraz vows to bring Gold for Spain ‘one day’ after heartbreaking defeat against Novak Djokovic at Paris Olympics
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Gouri Das
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