Novak Djokovic has playfully claimed he is owed a share of Carlos Alcaraz's prize money after the young Spaniard unveiled a new service motion at the Australian Open that bears a remarkable resemblance to his own.
The 'Cobra' Serve Sparks Friendly Banter
Following his straight-sets victory over Pedro Martinez in Melbourne on Monday 19 January 2026, Djokovic revealed he had immediately messaged his rival. "As soon as I saw it, I sent him a message," the Serbian star said. "I said, we have to speak about the copyrights."
The world number one elaborated on the joke, stating he had followed up in person. "Then when I saw him here, I told him we have to talk about percentage of his winnings. Every ace I expect a tribute to me. Let's see if he's going to stick to the agreement."
Alcaraz Admits to the Similarities
Alcaraz, who won his sixth grand slam at the US Open in September with a powerful serve, had already addressed the comparisons before the tournament began. The 22-year-old admitted he could see the parallels with Djokovic's distinctive 'cobra' position.
"I wasn't thinking about making the same serve as Djokovic," Alcaraz explained. "But in the end, I can even see the similarities." He emphasised that the tweak was part of his constant evolution, saying the new motion made him feel "really, really comfortable, smooth, really calm and peaceful."
"I just make constant changes in every shot. It's just about really small details," he added, hinting that further adjustments could come within months.
Australian Open Paths and Prospects
The two champions are on opposite sides of the draw at Melbourne Park, setting up a potential final showdown. Alcaraz began his campaign with a straight-sets win on Sunday, navigating his first major without long-term coach Juan Carlos Ferrero after their off-season split.
Djokovic, meanwhile, faces a potentially tougher route, with the possibility of meeting defending champion Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals. The light-hearted exchange over service technique adds another layer to their growing rivalry, blending respect with competitive fire as they pursue the year's first grand slam title.
