“Since I’ve achieved absolutely all possible goals, I said about the 2028 Olympics because I wanted to play for so many more years,” said Djokovic when asked about retirement. “So maybe ending up at the Olympic Games with the Serbian flag, that would be nice.”

In June, Djokovic also said: “It’s interesting when we talk about these achievements and the Olympics that stand out and redemption.

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“The only thing that I have in my head which gives me motivation is the Olympics of 2028 in Los Angeles. Playing for the national team and Grand Slams. But not even the Grand Slams, not as much as the Olympics.”

It seems that the thought of winning a second gold medal in Los Angeles is keeping Djokovic motivated, but one of men’s tennis’ leading players could look to redeem himself. Earlier this month, Alcaraz was asked what his immediate goals are and he pointed in the direction of LA 2028 and some vindication.

“I’m going for the Grand Slams. Winning as many Grand Slams as possible would be my goal. Or I could say winning an Olympic gold medal as well,” Alcaraz told Mundo Deportivo.

He was also asked if he is keen to surpass Djokovic. Alcaraz replied: “What I can say is that we’re on the right track. Having six Grand Slam titles is incredible and it means we’re doing things right. 

“Now it’s time to keep going. To keep rowing in the same direction. To keep training and working the same way or even better. Nobody knows the future. It’s uncertain. So we’ll see how we’re doing in a few years.

“There have been incredible players, legends. At the top of the list are Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal, and Novak Djokovic. I’d love to be at that level. That’s true. It’s a motivation for me and it helps my career but I’m not even close yet.”