​Novak Djokovic ended his streak of winning major tournaments, the Serbian added title number 24 to his resume after triumphing at the US Open 2023. After completing the final with Daniil Medvedev (6-3, 7-6(5), 6-3, after three hours and 17 minutes of play), Nole talked about his childhood dream, as well as the reality of today.

Novak DjokovicPhoto: USA TODAY Network / ddp USA / Profimedia

Novak Djokovic and a great chance to enter the history of tennis

After defeating Medvedev in the finals of the US Open 2023, Nole talked about the great chances of making history in tennis. The Serb says that in recent years he has felt that he can do a lot, and that it would be a shame not to take advantage of this opportunity.

“To enter the history of this sport is truly significant and special.

Obviously, in every sense, in every sense of the word, special. It is difficult to describe in words. I had such a dream as a child, I was seven or eight years old. I wanted to become the best player in the world and win the Wimbledon trophy. It was the only thing I wanted.

But then when I became successful, obviously I started dreaming new dreams and setting new goals, new goals. I never imagined that I would be here with you talking about the 24 Slam.

I never thought it would be a reality, but in the last two years I felt that I have a chance, that I have a chance in history – and why not take it if it presents itself to me” – Novak Djokovic.

At the end of the game with Medvedev, Joker paid tribute to Kobe Bryant. He wore a special jersey that featured the Serbian with the late NBA star and the number 24 on the back (Kobe’s many years in his career, as well as the number of Grand Slams Nole won).

Nole and Kobe were good friends, among other things, both supported the team “Milan”.

Know:

  • From Monday, Novak Djokovic will overtake Carlos Alcaraz and become the world leader.
  • Djokovic broke away to the top of the hierarchy of won Grand Slam titles. With 24 major trophies, the Serb is ahead of rivals Rafael Nadal (22) and Roger Federer (20 – retired from tennis).
  • Novak has 96 titles (24 Grand Slam tournaments – a record), and Daniil Medvedev has 20 trophies left (one Grand Slam tournament – US Open 2021, right after the final with Djokovic).
  • It was Novak Djokovic’s fourth Grand Slam final in 2023. The Serbian won the Australian Open, Roland Garros and the US Open before losing to Carlos Alcaraz in the final at Wimbledon.
  • Djokovic has played ten US Open finals and won four: 2011, 2015, 2018 and 2023.