Novak Djokovic was quick to flex his newfound status as Olympic champion ahead of this week’s US Open in New York City.
The Serb waltzed his way to a first-ever gold medal at the recent Paris Olympics, defeating the likes of Stefanos Tsitsipas, Lorenzo Musetti and Rafael Nadal at Roland-Garros.
But it was his final showing against familiar foe Carlos Alcaraz that caught all the headlines, with Djokovic edging a thrilling 7-6 (3), 7-6 (2) encounter to top the podium in the French capital.
Despite his illustrious winning record in major championships, Djokovic had endured a checkered past at the Olympics, having managed just one medal in four attempts prior to 2024.
That came in Djokovic’s first appearance at the Games in 2008, with a whopping 16 years separating his first and his latest Olympic medal.
Having waited so long to be crowned Olympic champion, Djokovic is keen to ensure people don’t forget about it anytime soon, with the 37-year-old embracing the gold-laden life.
Amid a sea of cameras and signature-hunting fans, Djokovic appeared at his US Open practice session over the weekend donning a new gold equipment bag – a clear nod to his latest achievement.
It comes ahead of what could prove another career-defining week for the Belgrade-born star, as he goes in search of a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title.
That’s if he can stay fit, with a heavily-strapped up Djokovic having been forced to finish a practice session with Holger Rune early on Friday.
On his current fitness status, Djokovic said: “On Friday I practised for an hour on the outside courts, and then I had some issues, so I didn’t practice any further at Arthur Ashe.
“Today [on Saturday], it wasn’t much of an issue, so I practised with [Stan] Wawrinka both on the outside court and on Ashe, where we get an hour per day. So far, everything is fine, it’s nothing serious in the wider context.”
He continued: “I’m not in my twenties anymore, I can’t chase the tournaments that are not absolute priority. As you guys know, those are Slams, Davis Cup and the Olympics.
“Those inspire me to compete, but I also enjoy the process of practice, of building up your form, body, and mind for the biggest challenges, such as this one in New York.”
Djokovic begins his US Open defence on Monday night against Radu Albot.
