Novak Djokovic finally captured the long-awaited Olympic Games gold medal in Paris last year, achieving what he had been chasing since 2008. At that moment, many believed the 24-time Major winner would close the curtain on his incredible career.
By winning the gold medal, Djokovic secured the ultimate milestone - the fifteenth and final missing crown in a collection that already defined tennis history. Instead of walking away, Novak chose a different path.
The Serb found fresh motivation in the very essence of the sport itself - the joy of competition and the privilege of giving back after receiving much over the previous two decades.
Now 38, Djokovic admits the period after completing his career-long quest felt unusual and almost empty when he returned to tournaments after completing the game. However, it also reignited his desire to continue and extend his legacy.
ADVERTISEMENT
No longer chasing records and achievements, the veteran competes for something deeper and purer: the emotional connection to his beloved game, the responsibility to inspire others and the satisfaction of contributing to never-endinggame's growth.
For Novak, tennis remains a living dialogue and an area between the past he shaped and the future he continue to influence and improve. As long as he performs, the ultimate icon carries the sport's attention and responsibility with him.
For the Belgrade native, it's duty and passion at the same time. The Olympic triumph may have completed his legacy. However, it did not end his story but fueled it ahead of new chapters.
Djokovic continues to battle and work hard not because he must but because he wants to, whichmay stand as his greatest achievement.
ADVERTISEMENT
"Many thought that I would finish my career after winning the Olympic Games gold medal in Paris. However, I do not play just for the achievements. They are a big part of my motivation, but I also play because I really enjoy the competition.
I appreciate the process and what tennis brings to me personally and to my family. It's also about what I bring to tennis as long as I remain an active professional. As long as I play, there will be attention from the world of tennis.
That brings responsibility, but I do not mind; I like it. I enjoy contributing to the prosperity, popularity and development of our sport. In addition, some private and business reasons keep me fighting.
I completed all the achievements with the Olympic gold medal, and it was a bit strange to return to tournaments and chase titles again. At the same time, it's a source of inspiration, as I still have the motivation and thirst to go for more," Novak Djokovic said.
