There are still two weeks left of the Paris 2024 Olympics, but our favorite sport, tennis, has already concluded. All the medals have been awarded in the five events, and all the great stories have been told on the courts of Roland Garros. At Punto de Break, as we do after every major event, we love to analyze the 10 takeaways from this Parisian event. Here they are:
1. Djokovic Completes His Collection
After 16 years of pursuing this title, Novak Djokovic can finally say he has won everything there is to win in tennis. Grand Slams, Masters 1000s, ATP Finals, Davis Cup, and now, an Olympic gold medal in singles. Nole leaves Paris knowing he has reached a place no one else in tennis history has.
2. China Confirms Its Rise
With Qinwen Zheng’s victory, China continues to demonstrate its potential in tennis. Guided by Pere Riba, Zheng has become the first Chinese player to win an Olympic gold medal in singles tennis, marking the beginning of what could be an extraordinary career.
3. Alcaraz, National Pride
While it hurts to see Carlos Alcaraz lose a final, the Murcian should be proud of his silver medal. An unforgettable summer and an outstanding tournament in Paris are more than enough reasons to celebrate his performance.
4. Swiatek’s Resilience
The disappointment after losing in the semifinals wasn’t easy for Iga Swiatek, but her victory in the bronze match showcased her resilience. Despite not achieving gold, Swiatek continues to prove she has the talent and time to achieve it in the future.
5. Musetti Breaks Barriers
Lorenzo Musetti won bronze, a medal with great symbolism for Italy. It is the first Olympic tennis medal for Italy in a hundred years, showing that Musetti has the potential to compete at a higher level.
6. Sorribes and Bucsa, Dream Team
The bronze in women’s doubles for Sara Sorribes and Cristina Bucsa is one of those unexpected joys that make the Olympics special. Their innate connection places them in the history of Spanish tennis.
7. Need for Reforms
While the Olympics are exciting, there is still room for improvement. Distributing prize money, awarding ranking points, and extending the event to two weeks would be welcomed changes to increase competition and player motivation.
8. Djokovic-Alcaraz Rivalry
The rivalry between Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz has been one of the biggest attractions in the circuit. Their matches have been among the best in the past few seasons, showcasing a generational duel that won’t last much longer.
9. Errani Makes History
Sara Errani, at 37, became the oldest tennis player to win an Olympic medal since tennis returned to the Games in 1988. Her bronze in women’s doubles alongside Jasmine Paolini is an incredible achievement in her career.
10. Dominance of the United States
The United States remains the dominant force in the Olympic tennis medal tally, with 26 medals. Spain and Russia are close behind, but for now, the Americans maintain their undisputed lead.
Exploring these highlights reminds us why we love tennis and how the Olympics bring unique and exciting stories to the sport.