November 21, (THEWILL) – Tennis superstar Novak Djokovic cemented his status as the greatest player in history with a record-tying seventh ATP Finals title on Sunday, dominating Italian Jannik Sinner 6-3, 6-3 in the final.
The 36-year-old Serb now has 98 career ATP titles, closing in on Roger Federer’s tally of 103. With 24 Grand Slam singles championships to his name after capturing three majors in 2023, Djokovic sits one clear of closest rival Rafael Nadal, the injury-plagued Spaniard hoping to return for the 2024 Australian Open.
However, one major feat missing from Djokovic’s overflowing trophy cabinet is an Olympic gold medal. Despite appearing at four Games from 2008-2021, Djokovic has never stood on the top step of the podium, taking bronze in 2008 and silver in 2012. He suffered shock early exits in 2016 and 2021 and has singled out winning gold at Paris 2024 as a priority alongside contending for more Grand Slam glory.
“It is definitely one of the main goals for next year, apart from the Grand Slams,” said Djokovic. “Going from the slowest surface to the fastest and back to the slowest –clay, grass, clay, then hard court – it’s going to be a very demanding, challenging part of the year.”
The world number one admits carefully managing his schedule will be imperative if he is to peak at the right moments. “I will have to talk to my team and see how we can plan our preparation and training so that I can play my best tennis where I want to,” he added.
Before Olympic planning begins in earnest, Djokovic still has the small matter of spearheading Serbia’s Davis Cup final challenge this week in Malaga, Spain. Djokovic led his nation to Davis Cup glory once previously back in 2010.
