16.3 C
Manchester
Saturday, April 26, 2025
Other SportsNovak Djokovic: Summer Olympics 2024 win 'belongs to Serbia'

Novak Djokovic: Summer Olympics 2024 win ‘belongs to Serbia’

Tennis great Novak Djokovic has said he “believed in the impossible” on his way to winning gold at the Summer Olympics 2024, dedicating his remarkable triumph in Paris to the population of his homeland of Serbia.

Two months after withdrawing from the French Open with a knee injury which required surgery, Djokovic avenged his defeat to Carlos Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final in July by beating the Spaniard in straight sets in the final at the Games, becoming the fifth singles player to win the ‘Golden Slam’ of all four grand slam titles and Olympic gold.

There had been doubts over whether the 37-year-old would be able to play at either tournament, and Djokovic said he had been inspired by his compatriots.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A POST SHARED BY NOVAK DJOKOVIC (@DJOKERNOLE)

Djokovic Olympics ‘dream’

“I could never give up on the dream of winning this gold medal, just as the people of Serbia have never given up on me,” the world number two said.

“Together, we believed in the impossible. 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 honour 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.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A POST SHARED BY THE OLYMPIC GAMES (@OLYMPICS)

Djokovic Serbia record

Born in Belgrade, Djokovic is said to live in Monte Carlo and own properties in cities including Miami, New York and Marbella.

Djokovic captained Serbia to their first Davis Cup title in 2010 and victory in the inaugural ATP Cup title in 2020.

He first represented his country in the Davis Cup in 2004 and has a singles record of 40 wins and eight defeats in the showpiece.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion dropped to the floor in tears after beating world number three Alcaraz at Roland Garros before celebrating with his family in the stands.

Alcaraz’s victory at Wimbledon meant Djokovic is still seeking the one major title he requires to eclipse the record he shares with Margaret Court and become the most successful player of all time.

Serbia’s other gold medal so far at the 2024 Games came in the shooting mixed team air pistol event, which was won by Zorana Arunovic and Damir Mikec.

Latest

Vehicle crime in Greater Manchester down 27 per cent, reports show

Vehicle-related crime across Greater Manchester has seen a reduction of 27 per cent, according to new figures. During September 2023 and March 2024, Greater Manchester...

Advance train tickets now available on TransPennine Express machines

Advance train tickets are now available for customers to buy using TransPennine Express (TPE) ticket machines. Advance train tickets are single, one-way tickets purchased in advance...

Planning pressures pushing firms to the brink, property expert warns

Planning pressures set UK developers up for failure, pushing more firms to the brink, Landwood warns. UK developers are abandoning unfinished projects as cashflow pressures...

DVLA bans more than 500 new number plates

A Freedom of Information request made by private plate supplier Regtransfers reveals the banned number plates from the forthcoming  ‘75’ release. These latest plates will...
Subscribe to our newsletter
Business Manchester will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing.
Don't miss

New public square unveiled in Gorton town centre

A new public square is now formally open, providing a new heart and focal point for the Gorton neighbourhood, while supporting the ongoing success...

Advance train tickets now available on TransPennine Express machines

Advance train tickets are now available for customers to buy using TransPennine Express (TPE) ticket machines. Advance train tickets are single, one-way tickets purchased in advance...

Double award win for Sodexo team at Wythenshawe Hospital

A project devised by Sodexo Health & Care at Wythenshawe Hospital has scooped two awards at the prestigious 2025 Safety & Health Excellence (SHE) Awards. Sodexo’s...

Police appeal following serious assault in Bramhall

Detectives are seeking the public’s help with enquires after a serious assault took place in a bar in Stockport. Sometime around 12.40am on April 19,...

More News

F1 Australian Grand Prix 2025: Report, result, highlights as Norris savours ‘stressful’ win

Lando Norris praised McLaren's "amazing car" after overcoming unpredictable conditions to beat reigning champion Max Verstappen and win the F1 Australian Grand Prix 2025...

India vs Australia: Preview, expected lineups, how to watch on TV and prediction for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

India vs Australia: The State of Play India will be targeting a third consecutive appearance in the final when they face Australia in the first...

New Zealand vs India: Preview, expected lineups, how to watch on TV and prediction for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

New Zealand vs India: The State of Play Two teams in excellent form meet on Sunday when New Zealand and India collide in their final...