Novak Djokovic lauds pride of representing Serbia referencing Federer, Murray and Alcaraz in Olympic Games gold medal speech
ATPSunday, 04 August 2024 at 17:30
Novak Djokovic has done it. The 24-time Grand Slam champion perhaps has sealed his finest hour, the Olympic Games gold medal and it is one that means a lot to the 37-year-old.
Djokovic defeated Carlos Alcaraz in two epic tie-breaks. As ever, he did not make it easy as he toiled with his great rival of recent times. But he would not be denied. He sealed the win 7-6, 7-6 and was in tears as he produced his trademark IDEMO celebration.
He sat on the bench and sunk his head into his towel. He spoke after he had composed himself and celebrated with his daughter Tara and his family.
He said that he put everything on the line to achieve the ultimate mission. He lauded the sense of pride he has for representing his country as well as his rivals including Nadal, Murray and Federer. With Alcaraz crying it can be seen how much it does mean.
But it is a career Golden Slam for one of the greatest ever and truly an achievement to be marvelled at. Weeks after knee surgery, he has reached a WImbledon final and won an Olympic Games gold medal. In a barren year, all of the toil will be worth it for this moment.
"Incredible battle, fight. I honestly when the last shot went past him it was the only moment I thought I could win the match. He keeps on coming back and asking me to play my best tennis. It was fair to finish both sets in tiebreak.
"I don't know what to say. I'm still in shock. I put my heart, soul, body, family, everything on the line to win the Olympic Gold at the age of 37.
"The pride to play for Serbia. Carlos and Rafa love to play for Spain, Andy for Britain, Roger for Switzerland. You just see the reactions when they win. It's special. It's different."
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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