For almost two decades, Novak Djokovic has danced with destiny, his racket weaving a tale of triumph and tenacity. However, finally, at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Djokovic could say, “This is probably the biggest sporting success I have ever had,” after winning his first Olympic gold medal. In doing so, he completed the career Golden Slam, joining Andre Agassi, Rafael Nadal, Steffi Graf, and Serena Williams. It was a coveted missing piece in his career, and at 37 years of age, the Serbian finally got it. It’s not only his fans that he impressed after achieving this feat, but tennis legends like Jimmy Connors are also left in awe!

In the Advantage Connors Podcast’s August 10 episode, Connors made a deep dive into the Olympic tennis finals that happened on August 4. Interestingly, it was the same day that the golf final also took place, wherein Scottie Scheffler, an American golfer, brought home a gold medal for his nation. When asked about both the “entertaining,” events, Jimmy stated that he was watching the golf final at first. However, the nail-biting tennis final clash between Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz eventually caught his attention. 

Connors aptly described Djokovic’s pursuit of Olympic gold, stating, “Djokovic has been around for 18 or 20 years and still wanting it. Probably, this gold medal is as important to him as his first Wimbledon or US Open, because he has done the other. He has won every Grand Slam and many other tournaments, but winning the gold medal here for him was just kind of the icing on the cake. Almost 3 hours of play and 7-6, 7-6 and the kind of tennis that they produce. Yeah what do you expect?”

The American former World No. 1, Connors, has had many success stories in his tennis career. From reigning at the top for 268 weeks to winning eight slams, the now 71-year-old retired player was also at the top of the game during his time. As a result, he understands the significance of fulfilling a lifelong dream in tennis. So, when he saw the Serbinator going all in at Paris, trying to rewrite his Olympic history even after 16 years, he could relate to his feelings.

Moreover, Djokovic, who won his first Wimbledon and the U.S. Open in 2011, has always expressed how winning a gold medal was one of his main goals this season. It appeared to be a bit far-fetched of a dream initially, as we witnessed his lacking form throughout the season, not being able to earn a title or reach a final round (except Wimbledon). 

His repeated semifinal exits and knee injury further instilled fear in us about his Olympic performance. But the Serbian’s drive to win the Games remained firm. After all, he has 24 Grand Slams, which come under his staggering 99 singles titles, and has achieved many remarkable feats in his career. So why can’t he grab a gold medal? He put an end to all the questions, surprising himself and his fans alike. And after the clash, this same emotion was visible in his reflections on the match.

Novak Djokovic describes his “best feelings,” at the Olympics

The owner of the 72 ‘Big Titles,” Djokovic stormed into the red clay, edging Alcaraz in straight sets, the same rival who defeated him at the Wimbledon finals a few weeks ago. It not only marked a significant achievement in his career, but he also established a lead (4-3) over the Spaniard, Alcaraz. The World No. 2 immediately burst into tears after the match before rushing over to celebrate it with his family. Later on, he composed himself and appeared for a post-match conference where he displayed his raw emotions once again.

“I thought that 2012 opening ceremony in London, carrying the flag for my country at the opening ceremony, opening the Olympic Games is the best feeling that an athlete could have. Until today. This kind of supersedes everything that I imagined, that I hoped that I could experience and that I could feel,” said Djokovic.

With the hope of playing in the next Olympics (LA 2028), Djokovic concluded his statements. As Djokovic continues to push boundaries, his legacy extends beyond accolades. He inspires generations with his tireless work ethic, cementing his position among tennis’ all-time greats.