Novak Djokovic seeks his elusive first Olympic gold and seems to be well on his way this time around in Paris. In a difficult match against Dominik Koepfer in round 3, the Serb dispelled doubts and showed his tenacity. Despite the pressure, Nole demonstrated his prowess and willpower by winning the match in straight sets by 7-5, 6-3. While the Serb is having a smooth run in the Olympics, his 2024 tennis calendar looks chaotic. Recently, Djoker gave a diplomatic answer when asked to choose between an Olympic gold or a Grand Slam victory.
With this victory in the third round, the 37-year-old moved on to the quarterfinals of the Paris Olympics, where he will play Stefanos Tsitsipas in a match that should be interesting and much-awaited. With a commanding win against the German player, the 24-time Grand Slam champion keeps up his unwavering pursuit of his first-ever Olympic gold medal.
After his win in round 3, when Novak Djokovic was asked by the writer Jonathan Crane which accomplishment he would prefer at this stage —winning the coveted Olympic gold or adding another Grand Slam championship to his remarkable collection, the Serbian star gave a brief but insightful response: “Both.” Djokovic’s failure to secure a Grand Slam title this year makes his diplomatic answer even more poignant.
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Novak Djokovic continues his quest for a first ever Olympic #Gold with victory over Germany's Dominik Köpfer.
I asked him if he had to choose just one thing – either winning the gold or winning another slam title – what it be?
His answer: "Both."
Uncompromising until the end! pic.twitter.com/g7XUYb0vkK
— Jonathan Crane (@jonathancrane5) July 31, 2024
In 2008, Novak Djokovic had his greatest Olympic run, as he took home a bronze medal in Beijing. He might not have won a gold medal yet, but the former world number one is relishing the opportunity to represent his nation. The Serb said he is enjoying his time in Paris and is eager to add an Olympic gold medal to his trophy case. “It is a great honor to represent my country at the Olympics. It is an incredible sporting event.”
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Meanwhile, Jimmy Connors’ son also has high hopes for Djokovic, even though the veteran has not won any title this season.
Jimmy Connors’ son has high expectations from Novak Djokovic
The Tennis Channel Inside-In podcast released a new episode a few days ago in which Jimmy Connors’ son Brett Connors discussed Novak Djokovic’s play this season and emphasized why supporters are still expecting the Serb to win titles.
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“Yeah, that’s the thing. Our expectations are so high, but in reality, he’s probably the third-best player in the world at worst. You know, like the guys who have beaten him lately. The Djoker, I mean, Carlos and Sinner, but on any given day, you can see Djoker popping up and beating those guys still feel like so,” Brett Connors said.
The Serbian star has had difficulties, but his drive hasn’t wavered. His measured reaction, which emphasizes his aspirations to win another Grand Slam championship as well as an Olympic gold medal, highlights his unwavering confidence and persistent resolve. What are your thoughts on Novak Djokovic’s Olympic run in Paris? Do let us know in the comment section below.