Novak Djokovic, widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, capped a tumultuous 2024 season with a monumental achievement: winning the Olympic gold medal, the one accolade that had eluded him throughout his illustrious career. In a candid interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, the Serbian legend shared his thoughts on this milestone and reflected on the remarkable progress of Italian star Jannik Sinner, offering insights into what it takes to maintain excellence at the highest level.
A Long-Awaited Triumph: Olympic Gold
Djokovic’s journey to Olympic glory has been anything but straightforward. Despite a career adorned with 24 Grand Slam titles, numerous Masters 1000 trophies, and a record number of weeks as world No. 1, the Olympic gold medal remained a glaring omission on his otherwise impeccable resume. For Djokovic, winning in 2024 was not just another achievement; it represented the culmination of years of perseverance, heartache, and an unwavering desire to represent his country on the biggest stage.
“The Olympic gold is an important achievement, especially because it is the only title I won this season,” Djokovic admitted. “But it’s also what I had identified as the most important at the beginning of the year. The gold was a dream, therefore a priority. It has been my great ambition for many years, despite the failed attempts, with three lost semifinals and the bronze in my first participation in 2008.”
The road to this victory was particularly challenging. At 37, Djokovic knew this might be his final opportunity to claim Olympic glory. The Games, held on the familiar clay courts of Roland Garros, added an extra layer of significance. “After the knee operation and the final at Wimbledon, I felt ready,” he explained. “I think I proved it with my performance at the Olympic Games. All in all, I have made a dream come true, and it is definitely one of the best moments, if not the best, of my career.”
This victory holds deep personal meaning for Djokovic, who has always been passionate about representing Serbia. For him, the Olympic medal transcends individual accolades; it symbolizes national pride and the culmination of a journey that began decades ago. “To win for Serbia, on such a prestigious stage, is a feeling like no other,” he reflected. “It’s something I will cherish forever.”
Admiration for Jannik Sinner’s Breakthrough Year
Beyond his personal triumphs, Djokovic also took time to discuss one of the most talked-about players on the ATP Tour: Jannik Sinner. The young Italian has enjoyed a phenomenal 2024 season, marked by consistent performances, deep runs in major tournaments, and a growing reputation as one of the sport’s rising stars. Djokovic, who has followed Sinner’s career closely, expressed admiration for his development and potential.
“First of all, I love Italy,” Djokovic began. “After Serbian and English, I wanted to learn the language, thanks in part to my former coach Riccardo Piatti, who also mentored Jannik when he was younger. I remember seeing Sinner when he was just 14 or 15 years old, and people were already speaking highly of him. It was clear even then that he had the right mentality and focus to go far in this sport.”
Sinner’s rise has not surprised Djokovic, who emphasized the importance of the young player’s mindset and work ethic. “I’m not surprised to see him at this level today after following his progress over the years. The way he structures his game, his dedication—these are qualities that set him apart. Working with Darren Cahill, someone who has guided many world No. 1 players, is also a tremendous advantage. I like Jannik because he always wants to improve, and that’s crucial.”
Words of Wisdom: Staying at the Top
While Sinner’s talent is undeniable, Djokovic knows from experience that sustaining success at the highest level is an entirely different challenge. The Serbian offered some valuable advice, drawn from his own journey of longevity and dominance.
“I think Jannik is doing well even without my advice,” Djokovic acknowledged. “However, winning your first two Slams and reaching the world No. 1 ranking is one thing; staying there for many years is another. To achieve that, you need to build a strong, trustworthy team around you. The balance between your professional and personal life is equally important.”
Djokovic emphasized the individuality of the sport, noting that what works for one player might not necessarily work for another. “In tennis, we are all different. The routines, strategies, and support systems that worked for me might not work for Jannik. But it seems to me that he has a clear understanding of what he needs. His next goal will be to invest in his body in the right way—preventing injuries, staying healthy, and, most importantly, maintaining his passion for the game.”
Looking Ahead: Djokovic’s Legacy and the Future of Tennis
As Djokovic reflects on his 2024 season, the significance of his Olympic victory extends beyond personal fulfillment. It solidifies his place in the annals of tennis history and serves as a testament to his resilience. At 37, he remains a formidable force, driven by a desire to keep pushing boundaries. His reflections on Sinner’s journey highlight a broader narrative: the passing of the torch to a new generation of players poised to shape the future of tennis.
The respect and insight Djokovic offers underscore his role not just as a competitor but as a mentor and ambassador for the sport. His words carry weight, not just because of his achievements, but because of the journey he has undertaken to reach the pinnacle of the game. As the 2025 season approaches, the tennis world watches with anticipation, eager to see if Sinner can rise to the challenge and if Djokovic can continue to defy expectations.
For Djokovic, the quest for greatness is never truly over. The Olympic gold may have been a final, crowning achievement, but his passion for tennis remains undiminished. As he puts it, “The journey continues, and there is always more to achieve.”