Emotional Djokovic finally wins Olympic gold

Novak Djokovic beat Carlos Alcaraz on Sunday to claim a maiden Olympic title and become just the fifth player to complete a career Golden Slam.

The 37-year-old Serb, competing in his fifth Games, came through 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/2) in an enthralling final at Roland Garros to add Olympic gold to his 24 Grand Slam triumphs.

The Olympic gold was the only major title missing from Djokovic’s record-breaking career and he becomes the oldest Olympic men’s singles champion in history at the age of 37.

An epic 93-minute first set proved key, swinging Djokvoic’s way as he struck first in the tiebreak. Alcaraz managed to hang on in the second but Djokovic won the second tiebreak of the match to claim an emotional gold for Serbia.

Alcaraz, the youngest man to reach an Olympic men’s singles final, won both the French Open and Wimbledon titles this summer and takes home silver for Spain at the age of 21.

“We played almost three hours for two sets. It was an incredible battle, an incredible fight. Honestly, when the last shot was hit past him (Alcaraz), that was the only moment I actually thought I could win the match.

“He kept on coming back and asking me to play my best tennis.”

When asked to describe his emotions at winning his first gold medal, the record grand slam winner replied: “I don’t know what to say, I am still in shock. I put my heart, my soul, my body, everything on the line to win Olympic gold at age 37. I finally did it.”

Djokovic also spoke before about what it means to play for his country and he has reiterated that again. “Most of all it’s the pride to play for Serbia.”

Alcaraz inconsolable

Alcaraz just tried to conduct an interview, but he was too emotional and has had to step away to compose himself.

“That was three hours of a phenomenal fight, a big battle. It’s never easy, and there were tough moments for me in the tiebreak. I just couldn’t get my level up.

“It’s very painful to lose today.”

The Serbian has won countless titles, but he seems overwhelmed by this victory. He wanted a gold medal to add to his collection, and now he has it.

He climbs into the stands to celebrate his victory. This means so much to him.