Rafael Nadal has tipped compatriot Carlos Alcaraz to defeat long-time rival Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open final, as the Spaniard returns to Melbourne for the first time since retiring in 2024. The 22-time grand slam champion will be courtside at Rod Laver Arena to witness what promises to be a historic showdown on Sunday.
Nadal, who won the Australian Open in 2009 and 2022, shares a deep bond with both finalists. His epic rivalry with Djokovic includes their record-breaking 2012 final, the longest grand slam final in history at five hours and 53 minutes. Meanwhile, he and Alcaraz played together at the Olympics, and the 22-year-old is now following in Nadal's footsteps.
Djokovic, at 38, stands one win away from a 25th grand slam singles title, which would give him sole ownership of the all-time record and make him the oldest grand slam champion in the Open era. Alcaraz, at 22, can become the youngest man to complete the career grand slam if he wins the Australian Open.
“Carlos is from my country. I have a good relationship with him,” Nadal said, as quoted by the Australian Open website. “If Novak wins, I will be happy for him because what he’s doing at this stage of his career is quite spectacular. He shows an amazing passion for the game.”
Nadal, who famously defeated Daniil Medvedev from two sets down in the 2022 final, praised Djokovic’s longevity: “With Novak, we had an amazing story. I think it’s a positive example of commitment, resilience... Full respect, full credit to him.” He added that watching the final as a fan will be “a pleasure” with “no pressure at all”.
