World no. 2 Novak Djokovic arrived in Paris on Wednesday, hitting the practice court and making final preparations ahead of his fifth Olympic Games. Novak will seek an elusive gold medal for his country at Roland Garros, chasing the first and most desired title of the season.
Djokovic hit the practice court with Felix Auger-Aliassime, and more training sessions will come in the next few days. Novak suffered a heavy loss to Carlos Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final, heading to Montenegro and enjoying a couple of days with his family on a yacht.
The 24-time Major winner then checked the court in Slovenska Plaza in Budva, training and starting preparations for the most important event of the season. Djokovic debuted at the Olympic Games 16 years ago in Beijing, losing to Rafael Nadal in the semi-final before winning the bronze medal for Serbia.
Novak experienced two tight losses in London 2012 before embracing another four years later in Rio, falling to Juan Martin del Potro in the first round and leaving the court in tears.
Novak Djokovic will be the top seed at the Olympic Games in Paris.
Djokovic was the top favorite in Tokyo three years ago, conquering three Majors earlier that year and seeking a Golden Slam.
Novak did not lose serve in the opening four duels, sailing past his rivals and reaching the semi-final. Djokovic built a set and a break advantage against Alexander Zverev before fading from the court, dropping ten of the final 11 games and suffering a painful defeat.
Novak could not recover for the bronze medal duel with Pablo Carreno Busta, losing in three sets and missing a medal. Djokovic will seek another chance at Roland Garros next week, staying away from the Olympic Village and focusing on his tennis.
Novak has yet to win the title in 2024, and he would love to change that in Paris. The Serb underwent a knee procedure in the French capital 50 days ago, withdrawing from Roland Garros ahead of the quarter-final and jeopardizing his Wimbledon participation.
Djokovic demonstrated incredible mental and physical strength, entering the draw with protection on his right knee and reaching the final for the tenth time from the previous 13 trips to London.
Novak defeated Holger Rune in the fourth round and skipped the next duel, as Alex de Minaur gave him a walkover. Resting his knee for a few more days, Djokovic defeated Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 7-6, 6-4 in the semi-final, setting the title clash with Carlos Alcaraz.
The Spaniard ousted the Serb for the second straight year, celebrating a 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 triumph and his second consecutive Wimbledon title. Novak accepted the loss, praising his rival and turning his focus to his main goal of the season, the Olympic Games.
Djokovic will be the top seed in Paris following Jannik Sinner’s withdrawal, avoiding Alcaraz before the potential final.