Despite missing out on medal, upbeat Djokovic reflects on Olympics

Novak Djokovic during his 6-2, 6-3, win over Bernard Tomic in the second round of the Rogers Cup on Aug. 7, 2012.
(photo by Kwai Chan / Meniscus Magazine)

After losing two matches in a row and missing out on an Olympic medal, one would have figured that Novak Djokovic would be bitterly disappointed at his 4^th place finish in London.  But the Serbian – who was beaten by gold medalist Andy Murray and bronze winner Juan Martin del Potro – instead looks back on his experience with fondness.

“It was a great honor and privilege to be representing the country,” Djokovic said on Tuesday in Toronto.  “I had an unforgettable experience at the opening ceremony, being selected as a flag bearer for my country.  Even though I missed the chance to win a medal, I still enjoyed the whole experience. ”

In fact, Djokovic made it a point to head from London straight to Canada for the Rogers Cup, where the defending champion became the top seed following the withdrawal of Roger Federer.  His enthusiasm continued to be on display on a rain-soaked Thursday when, following the departure of the injured Murray, he decided to entertain the few fans in Rexall Centre hoping to catch some tennis.  Djokovic went out to the court, picked up a squeegee to push aside some water, and then hit a few balls while holding an umbrella, later flipping it upside down to play catch.

“It’s great to be back in Canada for the Rogers Cup,” said Djokovic, who won the Australian Open in January.  “I love coming back here and playing here.  [There is] lots of support, lots of people from the ex-Yugoslavian region who live here.”

Photo Gallery: Novak Djokovic – Aug. 7, 2012
all photos by Kwai Chan / Meniscus Magazine

 Video: Novak Djokovic press conference – Aug. 7, 2012
video by Kwai Chan / Meniscus Magazine

In this press conference video excerpt, Djokovic talks about his experience at London 2012, playing at the Rogers Cup and his thoughts on Olympic bronze medalist del Potro, whom he lost to in the semifinals.