Djokovic Triumphs Over Alcaraz to Claim Long-Awaited Olympic Gold.

Tennis Paris Olympics 2024

Djokovic Triumphs Over Alcaraz to Claim Long-Awaited Olympic Gold.

Novak Djokovic defeated Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling match to win his long-awaited Olympic gold and complete the career 'Golden Slam.'

At his fifth Olympic Games, Novak Djokovic finally secured gold, adding to his record 24 Grand Slam titles and completing the career 'Golden Slam.'

The 37-year-old Serb delivered his best performance of the year to defeat French Open and Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz 7-6 (7-3) 7-6 (7-2) in a packed Paris stadium. 

Djokovic sealed his victory with a decisive forehand winner and, overwhelmed with emotion, threw his racquet and collapsed to his knees. After hugging Alcaraz, he wept with joy, unfurled a Serbian flag, and celebrated with his family and team.

Djokovic joins the elite list of players who have achieved the 'Golden Slam' in singles—Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams, Andre Agassi, and Steffi Graf.

"Everything I felt at that moment surpassed all my expectations," Djokovic said. "Standing on that court with the Serbian flag raised, the anthem playing, and gold around my neck—nothing in professional sports can top that. It's definitely my greatest achievement."

Carlos Alcaraz, 21, also shed tears after the match but will leave with a silver medal from his Olympic debut. Italy's Lorenzo Musetti won the bronze, defeating Canada's Felix Auger-Aliassime on Friday.

Djokovic Completes Tennis Grand Slam with Stunning Victory

This moment holds deep significance for Djokovic, perhaps even surpassing his Grand Slam, Masters 1000 titles, and ATP tournament victories.

Two months ago, Djokovic faced a knee surgery that threatened his Olympic dream. His reaction after Sunday's win underscored its importance. His family, waving Serbian flags and holding a sign from his daughter Tara that read "Dad is the best," cheered from the stands.

Djokovic has long viewed the Olympics as the pinnacle of sport. He has experienced a mix of emotions across his four previous Games: bronze in Beijing (2008), fourth in London (2012), an early exit in Rio (2016), and a loss in the bronze-medal match in Tokyo (2021).

In Paris, Djokovic remained unbeatable, not dropping a set and displaying unwavering focus. Despite a challenging final where he saved all eight break points and capitalized on Alcaraz's mistakes in the tie-breaks, he clinched the gold.

When asked if he felt he had 'completed' tennis, Djokovic replied, "Yes, it's complete because I've achieved everything with this gold medal. But no, because I love this sport and don’t play just to win tournaments. I want to savor this moment and celebrate after many years of dreaming about holding the gold medal."