Novak Djokovic’s continued dominance in tennis has been closely observed by experts, with renowned coach Patrick Mouratoglou offering insights into the motivations behind the Serbian star’s enduring success. According to Mouratoglou, Djokovic’s “ego was touched” by the rise of young talents like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, which reignited his drive to compete at the highest level.
The 2023 season was a record-breaking year for Djokovic, who secured three more Grand Slam titles, bringing his total to 24. However, his 2024 campaign began on a less triumphant note, with the world number one struggling to capture a title in the first seven months of the year. His form raised concerns, particularly after a loss to Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final, sparking doubts about his prospects for the upcoming Paris Olympics.
Despite these setbacks, Djokovic silenced his critics by winning the gold medal at the 2024 Olympic Games. His victory over Alcaraz in the final, without dropping a set, marked a historic achievement, making Djokovic the first man to win an Olympic singles title with such dominance. This triumph completed his collection of career titles, leaving many to speculate about his future in the sport.
Mouratoglou, who has coached legends like Serena Williams, Simona Halep, and Stefanos Tsitsipas, believes that Djokovic initially struggled with motivation due to the absence of his long-time rival, Rafael Nadal. “I think Novak can still play three or four years at the highest level,” Mouratoglou remarked. “The real question is about his motivation. I think he really struggled with motivation until the Olympics.”
The French coach highlighted that Djokovic’s motivation waned as Nadal, whom many considered his greatest rival, was no longer competing at his peak. However, the resurgence of Nadal on clay provided an unexpected boost for Djokovic. Mouratoglou explained, “Everybody felt like it was the end for Rafa. Novak felt it too; for sure, it hit his motivation really hard, but after that, Rafa came back on clay, and I think this gave extra motivation to Novak.”
Furthermore, Mouratoglou pointed out that the impressive performances of Sinner and Alcaraz also played a significant role in reigniting Djokovic’s competitive spirit. “Sinner started to play great, Alcaraz again [played great]. I think it touched his ego and he came back really strong,” Mouratoglou noted. This renewed vigor culminated in Djokovic achieving the Olympic gold, the only major title missing from his career.
As for what lies ahead, Mouratoglou is optimistic about Djokovic’s future in tennis. “He’s in great shape, he plays unbelievable tennis. He is ready to compete, I think, [for another] two, three, four years at the highest level,” Mouratoglou asserted. He concluded that the ongoing challenge posed by emerging stars like Alcaraz and Sinner will continue to drive Djokovic, as he seeks to maintain his place at the pinnacle of the sport.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2024
Now ranked no.3, Carlos played his last match on the 4th of August when he was defeated by world no.2 Novak Djokovic 7-6(3) 7-6(2) in the final in Paris (draw).
This season Carlos owns a compiled 38-7 match record. Carlos has won 3 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells, French Open and Wimbledon. The Spaniard got to the final in Paris.
Carlos Alcaraz will face the world no.328 Gabi Adrian Boitan in the . In the past, they have never competed against each other until now in top events.
The Spaniard has won 3 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells, French Open and Wimbledon. The Spaniard was the runner-up in Paris (Olympics).
The Spaniard won 16 titles in his career: 4 on hard courts, 8 on clay courts, 1 on indoor courts and 3 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)
Carlos Alcaraz |
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