Rafael Nadal predicts Carlos Alcaraz will defeat Novak Djokovic in Sunday’s Australian Open men’s final at Melbourne Park.
A High-Stakes Showdown Awaits
The match sets up an intense battle with significant records at stake for both competitors. Alcaraz secured his first Australian Open final appearance by overcoming Alexander Zverev in a grueling five-set match, battling through vomiting and cramps.
A victory over Djokovic would make the 22-year-old the youngest player to achieve a career Grand Slam in the Open era.
Djokovic advanced with a stunning five-set win against Jannik Sinner, reaching his 11th Australian Open final. A triumph here would crown him the oldest Grand Slam winner and deliver his 25th major title on Rod Laver Arena.
Head-to-Head History
Alcaraz last prevailed over Djokovic in the US Open semifinals, but the Serbian star edged out the world No. 1 in the Australian Open quarterfinals a year ago.
Nadal’s Prediction and Reasoning
Nadal, a two-time Australian Open champion, anticipates a tight contest. The 39-year-old supports his compatriot Alcaraz, citing the Spaniard’s youth and energy as key advantages in a prolonged match.
‘First of all, it’s going to be a pleasure to watch the final live,’ Nadal stated. ‘Having not been in a professional mindset for some time, the first thing I want is to enjoy a great battle and a high level of tennis again.’
He added, ‘I have a good relationship with him, we shared the Olympic Games, we were both on the Spanish team. If Novak wins, I’ll be happy for him because, in a way, what he’s doing is spectacular. It wouldn’t be a tragedy for me, but if I have to support someone, I feel I have to support Carlos.’
Regarding Alcaraz’s prospects, Nadal noted, ‘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. Favourite is Carlos from my point of view.’
