Novak Djokovic, the current world No. 1 in tennis, has his eyes set on two major victories in Paris this summer. Despite his focus on upcoming tournaments, Djokovic remains committed to preparing for the 2024 Olympics in Paris and is considering participating in the Italian Open in May to fine-tune his game.
Djokovic expressed his eagerness to compete at the highest level, stating, “I’m preparing myself, my body to be ready for, particularly for Roland Garros, Wimbledon, Olympic Games,” said the 24-time Grand Slam champion.
“That’s the block that is most important block of the tournaments of the year for me. I’m intending on playing in Rome. So I hope I can be there and can play and get myself ready. This year has been a bit different for me, the start, still finding the best level of tennis. Hopefully that can come in Roland Garros.”
Reflecting on his career and future aspirations, Djokovic acknowledged the significance of the Olympics, which only occur every four years, emphasizing his desire to compete at least until the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Despite uncertainties about his future, Djokovic remains optimistic about his chances and aims to make the most of every opportunity.
“Who knows if I’ll get another chance to play at the Olympic Games? They only come every four years. I said recently that I would really want to play at least till the (2028) LA Olympic Games. But you never know at this stage what can happen or how far I can go. So I’ll try to use this opportunity as best possible.”
Following his recent success at the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award ceremony in Madrid, Djokovic praised young football talent Jude Bellingham. Impressed by Bellingham's performance and mindset during a recent match for Real Madrid, Djokovic highlighted the 20-year-old's determination, patience, and professionalism, qualities he believes are indicative of a future champion.
“What I was impressed with is that he was always trying to make these runs, and he was not getting the right balls, and he was getting a little bit frustrated, but then he was waiting for the right opportunity,” said the 36-year-old, a day after Bellingham scored an injury-time winner for Real against fierce rivals Barcelona.
“He was serious, professional, dedicated, patient and believed that the chance will come. It came in the right moment and he decided the game. And he’s only 20. So that’s a feature or characteristic of a great champion.”
Djokovic's admiration for Bellingham's approach to the game reflects his own dedication to excellence in tennis, demonstrating a mutual respect for the pursuit of greatness in sports.