Days after Novak Djokovic-Carlos Alcaraz epic, Court Phillipe-Chatrier transforms into boxing arena for last stages of boxing at Paris Olympics
The iconic Court Phillipe-Chatrier at Roland Garros witnessed Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz produce a thrilling display of tennis in the men's singles gold medal match at the Paris Olympics. However, not long after the conclusion of Djokovic and Alcaraz's epic contest on Sunday, August 4, the court underwent a complete makeover as it turned into a boxing arena. The final stages of the boxing events at this year's Games are being held there.
Djokovic and Alcaraz's gold medal match went the Serb's way [7-6(3), 7-6(2)], but as the scoreline suggests, it was anything but a one-sided affair. The Serb and the Spaniard, ranked World No. 2 and World No. 3 respectively, couldn't be separated for most of the contest. However, it was in the tiebreaks that Djokovic asserted his superiority, coming up with some explosive shots that even the lightning-quick Alcaraz couldn't reach.
Ultimately, the 24-time Major winner added the Olympic gold to his trophy cabinet, the only missing piece in the puzzle. Djokovic's previous best finish at the Games saw him win a bronze medal, way back in his maiden Olympics outing in 2008.
However, the Court-Phillipe Chatrier's role at the Paris Olympics wasn't yet finished. Soon, organizers set to work on getting it ready for boxing's seven semifinals and 13 gold medal bouts. The result was a barely recognizable Court-Phillipe Chatrier, the iconic Roland Garros center court that hosts the finals of the French Open, tennis' sole claycourt Major, every year.
"This is for you" - Novak Djokovic writes stirring note to the people of Serbia after Paris Olympics success
Djokovic had made glory at the Paris Olympics one of his major goals for the 2024 season, and after achieving it with confidence, the Serb hailed it as the greatest success of his illustrious career.
On Tuesday, August 6, the 37-year-old took to X (formerly Twitter) to dedicate his gold medal to the people of Serbia. According to Djokovic, the life that he has wouldn't have been possible without their vociferous support for him.
"I could never give up on the dream of winning this gold medal, just as the people of Serbia have never given up on me. Together, we believed in the impossible. While I may be the one holding this medal, I want every Serbian to know that it belongs to all of us. Representing our nation is the greatest honor in the world. This medal, these moments, this life—none of it would have been possible without your unwavering support. This is because of you. This is for you. Hvala vam Love, Nole," Djokovic wrote.
The 2024 Paris Olympics was widely regarded as Djokovic's last chance for gold at the Games. However, the Serb himself has expressed his desire to feature in the 2028 edition as well, which is set to be hosted by Los Angeles.