• ATP Tour

Djokovic targets Olympic gold

ESPN staff
December 5, 2011
Novak Djokovic has his sights set on more grand slam trophies © Getty Images
Enlarge

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic believes it was not improvements to his game but his mentality that helped him win three grand slam titles in 2011.

Reflecting on a hugely successful season, Djokovic believes it was his new-found maturity which made the difference.

"It's true that I have improved but by a very small percentage," Djokovic told ESPN. "It's the same game I've had the last couple of years; it's my mental approach on the court that's changed.

"That was the difference. I stepped it up. I matured and said, 'It's my time. I can do it. I can win major titles'. I think luck falls on not just the brave but also the ones who believe they belong there."

After a brief break, Djokovic will return to action next month, when one of his first tasks will be to defend his Australian Open title - the first of 10 title defences in 2012. But Djokovic already has his sights on another prestigious title on the Wimbledon courts at London 2012.

"I'm only 24, and I want to have many more successful years, win as many major titles as possible," Djokovic said. "The Olympics are coming up. I want a medal."

This story first appeared in the December 12, 2011, "Interview Issue" of ESPN The Magazine.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices