"I’m pretty sure he’s able to do it": Carlos Alcaraz backs Novak Djokovic’s Olympic dream at 41

Carlos Alcaraz is awaiting his French Open debut as the defending champion, although this isn’t the first time he’s competed at Roland Garros since capturing his third Grand Slam title. The Spaniard also played a major role at the Olympic Games six weeks later, ultimately falling to Novak Djokovic in the final.

The Serbian finally secured the long-awaited Olympic gold in Paris 2024, completing the only major title missing from his legendary career. Meanwhile, Alcaraz missed the chance to become the youngest tennis player to win Olympic singles gold. After the tournament, Djokovic expressed his intention to compete once again at the Olympics in Los Angeles 2028, when he will be 41.

Despite struggling with form since early 2024 and lacking his usual consistency, there are no signs that Djokovic plans to retire anytime soon. Alcaraz was asked about Djokovic’s chances of defending his Olympic title.

“Well, I mean, his body is feeling like he’s 25 years old. It is crazy how he maintains such a good level going into matches. The level is another thing,” said the four-time Grand Slam champion. “He can struggle, or he’s been struggling in terms of level. But I think physically he’s in really good shape. It depends on him. I’m pretty sure if his goal is to play another Olympic Games, I think he’s able to do it.”

“Of course, I think he takes great care of his body, of everything, just to be at 100 percent. If he’s got that, he can do it for sure,” added the 22-year-old Spaniard. “I’d be more than happy to see him stay on tour for more years, sharing good moments and good tournaments with him. I’d be more than happy if that happens.”

Alcaraz could potentially meet Djokovic again at Roland Garros if both make deep runs. The Spaniard is the second seed and will play from the bottom half of the draw, while Djokovic returns to the second Slam of the year as the sixth seed, meaning a potential quarter-final clash is on the cards.