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Novak Djokovic Aims to Defend US Open Title and Continue Making History
Not since Roger Federer clinched his fifth and final US Open title in 2008 has any player successfully defended the men’s singles title at the US Open. Four-time champion Novak Djokovic is determined to change that this year.
Ahead of his first-round match against Moldova’s Radu Albot on Monday night at Arthur Ashe Stadium, the 2024 Olympic gold medalist expressed his unwavering hunger for Grand Slam success.
“Hopefully that changes this year,” Djokovic said when reminded of the 15-year drought for back-to-back US Open men’s champions. “The goal is always to reach the finals and fight for the trophy. My mindset hasn’t changed.”
At 37, Djokovic, the No.2 seed, insists that his drive to compete at the highest level remains as strong as ever.
“People ask me, now that I’ve basically won everything, including the gold medal, what’s left to win?” Djokovic reflected. “But I still feel the drive. I still have the competitive spirit. I want to make more history, enjoy myself on the tour, and inspire young people to watch and play tennis. These are the reasons I keep going.”
Djokovic also revealed that competing against younger rivals like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner keeps him motivated to perform at his best.
“These rivalries, particularly with Jannik and Carlos, along with others like Zverev, Medvedev, and Tsitsipas, bring joy to the competition for me,” he said. “They inspire me to push myself, perfect my game, and keep up with them on the biggest stages, despite the age difference.”
Olympic Gold: Djokovic’s Greatest Moment
Djokovic has had countless triumphs in his illustrious career, but he ranks winning the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Games as his most moving performance.
“I’ve had heartbreaking losses at the Olympics and worked hard to fight for gold,” Djokovic explained. “At 37, I wondered if this was my last chance, so I pushed harder than ever.”
The Olympic victory was a dream come true for Djokovic, who described it as the most intense emotion he has ever felt on a tennis court.
“It was one of my best performances in years, especially in the finals against Carlos,” he said. “Having my wife and children there, with the entire nation watching, was a proud moment. The gold medal around my neck with the Serbian anthem playing was incredibly special, surpassing every Slam I’ve won. The journey, the way I achieved it, makes it even more unique.”
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