Djokovic: Gold in Paris Is the Greatest Moment of My Career
The Serbian tennis player spoke to Spain's Sport about family, plans, and a possible farewell in Los Angeles in 2028.
The Serbian tennis player spoke to Spain's Sport about family, plans, and a possible farewell in Los Angeles in 2028.
Novak Djokovic (39) believes that winning the gold medal at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris is "probably the most important moment of his life and career." In an interview with the Spanish newspaper Sport, the Serbian tennis player recalled the emotional final against Carlos Alcaraz and explained why that achievement means so much to him.
In Paris, Djokovic was 37 years old and had four failed attempts to reach the Olympic final behind him. "For me, Paris was a true achievement and an incredible experience, especially given the circumstances," he said. "I was 37, with numerous difficulties behind me and four failed attempts to reach the Olympic final, and across the net stood the then-best player in the world, Carlos Alcaraz, who was very young and had already won Grand Slam titles."
The victory over the then-world No. 1, along with all the circumstances that accompanied it, made that moment special not only for him but also for his family.
"It was truly wonderful, something very special for me and my family," Djokovic recalled. "Having my wife and children there to experience and celebrate that moment together, and then returning home the next day with the Serbian flag draped over my shoulders. It was unforgettable. It's truly the kind of event that you probably experience only once in a lifetime."
Djokovic does not hide his desire to end his career at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles, which will be held from July 14 to 30, 2028. "I think it's both a dream, a goal, and a desire," he said. "In recent years, I've said several times that I would like to make it to the Los Angeles Olympics. I believe I can achieve that. We'll see. It will all depend on how my body responds, as well as many other circumstances. I hope I can make it to the Olympics and end my career that way, with the Serbian flag draped over my shoulders."
At this stage of his career, Djokovic has decided to play fewer tournaments to devote more time to his family. "I made that decision because I want to truly dedicate myself to the different roles I have in life-husband, father, son, and brother-while also nurturing other interests," he explained. "Of course, tennis remains the focus of my professional life, but I want to find a balance, which is why I've adjusted my schedule."
