Novak Djokovic receives surprise apology from TV network for gaffe in Carlos Alcaraz Olympics final.
Eurosport has apologised to Novak Djokovic for accompanying his name with a Croatia flag following his triumph over Carlos Alcaraz in the Olympic Games gold medal match.
The Serbian ace defeated his Spanish opponent in straight sets, each decided by tiebreaks.
Djokovic’s triumph means he has completed the Golden Slam, having previously won the Australian, French, Wimbledon, and US Open.
Djokovic has had a difficult year on the court, failing to win any of the first three Grand Slams. And he was played off the court when he faced Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final last month, which the 21-year-old won in straight sets.
However, Djokovic put on a spectacular performance to defeat Alcaraz on Roland Garros’ clay courts on Sunday.
As a proud Serbian, the player may have been disappointed by Eurosport’s oversight. On Monday, the broadcaster issued a statement that read: “We deeply regret the error that was made when selecting a flag emoticon to post on a social network and sincerely apologize.” We once again congratulate Novak on this incredibly historic milestone for him and his country.”
Djokovic is only the fifth player to complete the Golden Slam, following Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams, Andre Agassi, and Steffi Graf.
The veteran has won 24 Grand Slam titles in his remarkable career and is expected to capture a 25th major trophy at the US Open next month.
Following his victory versus Alcaraz, the blockbuster star explained: “all I felt in that moment when I won surpassed all I expected or hoped for.
“Being on that court, hoisting the Serbian flag, singing the Serbian anthem, and wearing the gold around my neck, I don’t think anything beats that in terms of professional sports. It is without a doubt the most significant sporting achievement I have had.”
When asked if he had played in tennis, the 37-year-old replied, “Yes, it’s complete because I completed all of the achievements with this gold medal, but no, because I love this sport.” I don’t play just to win tournaments.
“I don’t know about the future; I just want to be in the now to rejoice. It was a long trip, many years of fantasizing about clutching the gold medal. So now it’s all about happiness, joy, and celebration.
