Novak Djokovic will represent Serbia at the upcoming Paris Olympics, the country’s Olympic Committee announced on Tuesday. His participation was uncertain after he tore his meniscus during a fourth-round win over Francisco Cerundolo at the French Open earlier this month.
Recovery and Return
The injury forced Djokovic to withdraw from his quarterfinal match against Casper Ruud, leading to a successful knee surgery. On June 6, Djokovic posted on social media that the “surgery went well” but did not specify his recovery timeline. He assured fans that he would work to return “as soon as possible.”
Djokovic, 37, has an illustrious career with a record 24 Grand Slam singles titles. Despite his numerous achievements, an Olympic gold medal has eluded him. In his four previous Olympic appearances, he secured a bronze medal at Beijing 2008 by defeating American James Blake.
Challenges at the Paris Games
Tennis at the Paris Olympics will be held at Roland Garros, posing an additional challenge for players who must readapt to clay courts following the grass court season. Djokovic recently emphasized that the Olympics are his “priority” this season. He recalled carrying the Serbian flag at the Opening Ceremony of London 2012 as the “greatest honor.”
“Being part of the Olympic Games and representing your country is a huge privilege and honor,” Djokovic told the ITF in May. “It’s special to be part of the oldest sports event in history. Winning a gold medal or any medal for my country is a great wish and desire. It is one of the greatest priorities and goals for this season, there is no secret about that.”
Novak Djokovic has been announced to play the 2024 Paris Olympics by the Serbian Olympic Committee.
AdvertisementAfter his recent surgery, this is great to hear.
IDEMO. ❤️
(via @OKSrbije) pic.twitter.com/vSCZMW9hYo
Advertisement— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) June 18, 2024
Djokovic will join Team Serbia alongside world No. 56 Dušan Lajović, aiming to bring home Olympic glory.
