Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic lead the charge as no rest for multiple medal hunters at Paris Olympics

NEW DELHI: The ability to multitask is a crucial skill for athletes competing in multiple events at the Olympic tennis competition. Unlike Grand Slam tournaments, where players often specialize in either singles or doubles, the Olympics demand versatility and endurance from those vying for multiple medals. The fifth day of the Olympic tennis event at the sweltering Roland Garros showcased the demanding schedule that some players had to navigate.While top-seeded Novak Djokovic could rest after reaching the men's singles quarterfinals, others had to juggle multiple events. American Taylor Fritz, despite being eliminated from the singles draw, had to quickly shift his focus to the men's doubles third round with partner Tommy Paul, followed by a mixed doubles quarterfinal alongside Coco Gauff later in the evening. Fritz acknowledged the different physical demands of doubles, stating, "Luckily, the doubles is not the same physicality as singles."Paul, who advanced to the singles quarterfinals, celebrated his victory with an imaginary shovel, symbolizing the team's collective effort. He emphasized the motivating factor of team camaraderie, saying, "We've been digging all week. It's been so much fun, the whole team has good vibes and we're having a blast. And it helps when you're winning some matches."Carlos Alcaraz, fresh from his French Open and Wimbledon triumphs, also had a packed schedule. After reaching the singles quarterfinals, he teamed up with Rafael Nadal for a men's doubles quarterfinal against Americans Rajeev Ram and Austin Krajicek.Coco Gauff, despite her early singles exit, remained focused on her medal prospects in the doubles events. In addition to partnering with Fritz in mixed doubles, she also competed in women's doubles alongside Jessica Pegula. Gauff expressed her determination to return home with a medal, stating, "A medal is the main goal."Felix Auger-Aliassime faced a demanding afternoon, first taking on Daniil Medvedev in singles before joining forces with Gabriela Dabrowski in a mixed doubles quarterfinal against Fritz and Gauff. Dabrowski herself had earlier women's doubles action with Leylah Fernandez.Danielle Collins exemplified the multitasking demands, competing in both singles against top seed Iga Swiatek and doubles alongside partner Desirae Krawczyk.