The 2024 season started out slow for Novak Djokovic. The Serbian star was unable to secure any major victories, unlike the expectations resting on him. And then, suddenly, Nole decided not to take his foot off the pedal at the Paris Olympics. He bagged the elusive gold and concluded his long-held ambition. The quadrennial event showcased exactly why Djokovic deserves to be ranked as one of the most resilient players produced by the sport. Something, that Andre Agassi has touched down on.

In the event’s summit clash, Nole outclassed Spanish sensation Carlos Alcaraz. The duel saw the Serbian giant navigate through the World No. 3’s resistance, coping through every challenge. This, in turn, attracted several personalities to provide their insight into the gold medalist’s key to success. Subsequently, the seven-time major champion reserved some words for Djokovic’s unmatched on-court mentality.

In an August 10 interview with We Love Tennis, Agassi spoke about the Serb’s accomplishments, terming how the Serb’s formidability goes a long way to speak about his mental fortitude. Further, the 54-year-old also cited that Nole is an adept learner. Whatever challenge is thrown at him, he approaches it based on his rival’s counterattacks on his weaknesses.

He said, “Without a doubt, Djokovic is the best mentally. When Novak decides to lock down the opponent or when he is tired of playing the way the opponent wants, then he raises the level. He will use his speed defensively, lock down the game mentally and you will see how he knows exactly when to change his approach. Such nuances are fantastic and no one has ever used them better than him.”

For the unversed, Nole’s Paris triumph made him one of five players in the Open Era to add a career golden slam to his legacy. Notably, Agassi is one of the five entities on the list. He earned laurels for his nation after claiming a gold medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Meanwhile, Djokovic’s elation with his victory knew no bounds. The Serb extensively expressed his delight achieving the feat for his country.

Novak Djokovic pens a heartfelt note to Serbia following Olympic glory

Last Sunday, fans witnessed Djokovic burst with a plethora of emotions as he fell to the ground in disbelief and happiness. It was his fifth Olympics and his first gold. Subsequently, the World No. 2 also scripted a sincere letter to his country.

In an Instagram post, the 37-year-old credited his countrymen for never turning their back on him and entrusting him to set Serbia up on the podium’s top spot. Further, Nole also hoped that his triumph encouraged his compatriots to follow a similar path if they wish to bring laurels to Serbia, like he did.

“While I may be the one holding this medal, I want every Serbian to know that it belongs to all of us. Representing our nation is the greatest honor in the world. This medal, these moments, this life—none of it would have been possible without your unwavering support. This is because of you. This is for you. Hvala vam ❤️”

Djokovic has withdrawn from the Canadian Open and the upcoming Cincinnati Open to recover after an exhausting Olympic campaign. Although the Serb has skipped all warm-up events leading to the US Open, the former World No. 1 will likely return to the Flushing Meadows in hopes of decorating his legacy further.