Novak Djokovic defeated Carlos Alcaraz in thrilling fashion to claim the long-awaited Olympic title and complete the “Golden Slam” of his career.
Djokovic won 24 men’s Grand Slam championships and swept all championships in the tennis world, eventually winning the Olympic gold medal at the fifth Olympic Games.
The 37-year-old Serbian produced his best performance of the year in front of a packed crowd in Paris, defeating French Open and Wimbledon champion Alcaraz 7-6 (7-3) 7-6 (7-2).
He sealed the title with a forehand winner, then turned to his boxers – arms stretched out in disbelief – before throwing his racket to the floor after a grueling match that lasted less than three hours superior.
After hugging Spanish player Alcaraz, Djokovic immediately burst into tears and fell to his knees in the middle of the court.
He then unfurled the Serbian flag and climbed into the stands to celebrate with his family and support team.
Djokovic is the fifth person to win the singles “Golden Slam” (all four Grand Slams and the Olympic Games) after Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams, Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf. champion) players.
“The moment I won, everything I felt was beyond anything I could have imagined or hoped for,” Djokovic said.
“Being on the pitch with the Serbian flag raised, singing the Serbian national anthem and wearing a gold medal around your neck, I think nothing can compare in terms of professional sports.
“It’s definitely the greatest sporting achievement I’ve ever had.”
The 21-year-old Alcaraz was also in tears after the game, but will go on to win a silver medal in his Olympic debut.
Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti defeated Canada’s Felix Auger-Aliassime on Friday to win the singles bronze medal.
