Novak Djokovic vs Carlos Alcaraz: Rafael Nadal has made it clear he has nothing but admiration for longtime rival Novak Djokovic, but he believes fellow Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz has the edge heading into Sunday’s Australian Open final.
Rafael Nadal Weighs In On Novak Djokovic vs Carlos Alcaraz Australian Open Final
The 22-time Grand Slam champion, who retired from tennis in 2024, will be in Melbourne to watch the much-anticipated clash. Nadal, a two-time Australian Open winner himself, says the world number one looks like the favourite, even though Djokovic’s record at the tournament speaks for itself.
“I think the favourite is Carlos,” Rafael Nadal told host broadcaster Channel Nine on Saturday.
“He’s young, he has the energy and he’s in his prime. But I mean, Novak is Novak. He’s a very special player.
“I don’t know if Novak has lost a final here. It’s always a challenge and he likes the challenges.
“(But) favourite is Carlos from my point of view.”
A Positive Sign for Tennis
Speaking separately to The Melbourne Age, Rafael Nadal said it was encouraging to see Djokovic still competing at the very top against the new generation, including Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
Novak Djokovic pulled off a huge win in the semi-finals, battling past 24-year-old Sinner in five gruelling sets to reach his 11th Australian Open final. Remarkably, he has won every final he has played in Melbourne so far.
“I really believe that he is here for one simple reason -– because if I don’t get injured, probably I will be here playing too,” said Nadal, who is one year older than Djokovic.
“When you like to do this thing, if you are not injured and if you are not super tired mentally, why wouldn’t you be here?”
Respect for Resilience and Commitment
Rafael Nadal went on to praise Novak Djokovic’s mindset and determination, calling his continued success a strong example for the sport.
“I think it’s a positive example of commitment, of resilience.
“I mean, Novak, for obvious reasons, he’s not at his prime, but he is still very, very competitive at an age that is difficult to be very competitive. So full respect.”
History on the Line in Melbourne
Novak Djokovic is chasing history on Sunday. At 38, he is trying to become the oldest man to win the Australian Open, a record currently held by Ken Rosewall, who won the title in 1972 at the age of 37.
He is also aiming for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, which would move him past Margaret Court. The court is also expected to be in attendance at Rod Laver Arena to witness the potential milestone.
With youth, experience, history, and pride all in play, Nadal believes Alcaraz may have the edge, but like many fans, he knows better than to ever count Novak Djokovic out.
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