Novak Djokovic recalls ‘edge-of-the-seat’ thriller between Serbia and USA’s ‘dream basketball team’ in semifinals of Paris Olympics
After his first-round win at the US Open, Novak Djokovic heaped praise on the USA's basketball team that played at the Paris Olympics.
Novak Djokovic lauded USA's basketball team (Images via X)
Novak Djokovic recalled the thrilling match between the USA and Serbia in the semifinals of the Paris Olympics. USA were down 13 at the end of the third quarter but made an incredible comeback to secure a berth in the final and eventually emerge victorious by beating France.
With that win, the USA also won their fifth straight gold medal. Djokovic heaped praise on the ‘dream team’ of the USA and revealed how engrossed he was while watching them take on Serbia.
You mentioned the dream team, the US basketball team. Incredible incredible efforts. They played my Serbia in the semis and they were down 13, I was on the edge of my seat. But kudos to them. It was amazing privilege to be part of the Olympic Games where these old-time sports' greats were part of it and to witness that was amazing.Novak Djokovic told ESPN
Amazing Novak Djokovic interview after his victory today where he reflects on winning gold. ? ❤️pic.twitter.com/bzHlnHvFOn
— Danny ? (@DjokovicFan_) August 27, 2024
The match was played a few days after Djokovic scripted history by winning his first gold medal. He beat Carlos Alcaraz in the final to accomplish the rare Career Golden Slam, becoming only the third male player to achieve it.
Novak Djokovic reveals unforgettable experience at the Olympic Games
Prior to winning the gold medal, Novak Djokovic had never played an Olympic final and when he finally etched his name on the record books again, it was a moment of pure ecstasy. The greetings and praises from his fellow Olympians from Serbia after the win have become a memorable experience for him. Djokovic also received a warm welcome when he returned to Serbia and proudly showed off his medal.
The fellow Olympians from Serbian Olympic team were there and how they greeted me when I went back to Olympic village is something unforgettable, is something unique, it is the highlight of my career. I've never experienced such an intense emotion, I'm very grateful for that.Novak Djokovic told ESPN
It was Djokovic’s second final of the year, having reached the summit clash in Wimbledon and losing in straight sets to Carlos Alcaraz. Djokovic is at the US Open and has already played his first match without breaking a sweat.
He defeated Radu Albot in straight sets and will lock horns with compatriot Laslo Djere in the second round. The second seed aims to defend his title and by doing so, he will clinch his record 25th Grand Slam trophy. Last year, Djokovic beat Daniil Medvedev in the final in straight sets to win his 24th major title.
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Gouri Das
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