Novak Djokovic finally completed his career Golden Slam. He beat Carlos Alcaraz 7-6(3), 7-6(2) in an exciting and competitive match that was closely fought from start to finish. He now has the Olympic gold medal he has sought throughout his 20-year career.
Alcaraz, 21 and competing in his first Olympics, fought hard, but he was not as disciplined as the much more experienced Djokovic. As the match wore on and Alcaraz couldn’t breathe between himself and Djokovic, he began to get frustrated, talking (and sometimes yelling at) each other between points. That’s always a wake-up call for Alcaraz, who is at his best when he’s smiling and enjoying the game. But he couldn’t control this one, and Djokovic, playing his best tennis since 2023, refused to give in.
Until now, Djokovic had not won any titles this season. And for the first time in 14 years, the 37-year-old had not won any of the first three Grand Slams of the year. But he showed courage and patience, and combined with Alcaraz’s athleticism and showmanship, it was a match for the ages. Alcaraz can be proud of his silver medal and the way he played against Djokovic, who seemed to be rediscovering his old magic. But for Djokovic, this gold medal finally filled the one gaping hole in his long, trophy-studded resume.
