Novak Djokovic achieved the remarkable feat of completing his career Golden Slam in a thrilling showdown against Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz at Roland Garros on Sunday.
Despite the disappointment he experienced in Beijing, London, Rio de Janeiro, and Tokyo, Djokovic’s determination never wavered as he claimed the elusive title with a score of 7-6(3) 7-6(2) in front of an captivated audience on Court Philippe Chatrier. As the top seed, Djokovic delivered an exceptional performance, denying Alcaraz and joining the ranks of the select few who have won all four singles Grand Slams and the Olympic gold medal. The match itself was a battle of epic proportions, with neither player backing down. The first set alone lasted an intense one hour and thirty-three minutes, filled with gripping games that determined control. It was Alcaraz who faltered in the tiebreak, and when a second tiebreak was needed to settle the second set, Djokovic once again elevated his game, securing victory with a breathtaking forehand winner down the line.
Djokovic let out a triumphant roar towards the sky and, after offering consolation to Alcaraz at the net, he dropped to his knees and wept in the middle of the court. Following that, he made his way into the crowd, where he was embraced by his family, friends, and team.
While Djokovic, the oldest player to win the Olympic singles title since the sport returned to the Games in 1988, shed tears of happiness, the 21-year-old Alcaraz was devastated after falling short of adding the gold medal to his victories at this year’s French Open and Wimbledon.
Djokovic had previously lost in the Olympic singles semi-finals three times and knew that this was his final realistic opportunity to complete his trophy collection, which already boasts a record 24 Grand Slam titles.
And he achieved it in spectacular fashion – avenging his crushing defeat to Alcaraz in last month’s Wimbledon final and becoming the first man to win the Olympic singles title without dropping a set.
“It was an incredible battle, and I had to produce my best tennis,” an emotional Djokovic shared with Eurosport before the medal ceremony, while Serbian fans rejoiced in the stands.
“It was only fair that both sets ended in tiebreaks. I gave it my all, pouring my heart and soul into winning the gold.
“I did it primarily for my country, for Serbia.”
Djokovic has become a member of a select group that includes Andre Agassi, Rafa Nadal, Serena Williams, and Steffi Graf. These tennis legends have all achieved the remarkable feat of winning all four Grand Slam tournaments and the Olympic title throughout their careers.
