"The only thing he didn’t win yet": Novak Djokovic is 'very hungry' to clinch elusive Olympic gold at Paris 2024, suggests compatriot Hamad Medjedovic
Hamad Medjedovic recently discussed Novak Djokovic's naked ambition to clinch the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Medjedovic expressed confidence in his compatriot's ability to win the elusive prize for Serbia if he remains fit enough to deliver his best performance.
Despite Djokovic's numerous achievements in recent years, including becoming the player with the most Major title in the Open Era, winning a record seven ATP Finals crowns and securing the most Masters 1000 trophies, the Olympic gold medal remains the one big title conspicuously missing from his trophy cabinet.
In a recent interview with CLAY, Hamad Medjedovic asserted that the World No. 2's determination to win the elusive prize is no secret, suggesting that he is "very hungry" to achieve the feat at the upcoming Paris Olympics.
Amid concerns about the 37-year-old's fitness due to his recent knee surgery and doubts about his Wimbledon participation, Medjedovic emphasized that his fellow Serb will be the "top favorite" for the gold medal if he remains healthy.
"Yes, I mean, everybody knows that he wants to win. An Olympic gold is the only thing he didn’t win yet. I think he’s very hungry to take it this year. And as I said before, if he’s fit and healthy, he will be the top favorite," he said.
It is worth mentioning that the World No. 2 has been named in Serbia's squad for the Paris Olympics.
"Novak Djokovic is the great role model for everybody on and off the court" - Hamad Medjedovic
In the same interview, Hamad Medjedovic also praised Novak Djokovic as the ideal role model. He emphasized that players could learn a lot from the 24-time Grand Slam champion, not just from his on-court prowess but from his character.
"Let’s just say he’s the great role model for everybody on and off the court. I think so many people can learn from him, not only about tennis, but how he is as a person. I know he’s pretty close to his loved ones and he’s just an amazing guy," he said.
In particular, Medjedovic highlighted the World No. 2's humility and friendliness as qualities worth aspiring to.
"You can learn a lot from and I think that’s the biggest thing you can have as a human being. Being so humble and being so friendly to everyone, even though you’re the greatest sports player ever. I think seeing him being so humble and down to earth is just amazing," he added.
Hamad Medjedovic's adulation for Novak Djokovic comes as no surprise, as the 24-time Grand Slam champion provided significant financial support to the 20-year-old early in his career.