Australian Open men’s final: ‘Full respect’ for Djokovic but Nadal tips Alcaraz for Melbourne title
The Hindu
Rafael Nadal praises Novak Djokovic but favours Carlos Alcaraz to win the Australian Open final in Melbourne.
Rafael Nadal says he has "full respect" for old rival Novak Djokovic but tipped Spanish compatriot Carlos Alcaraz to win Sunday's Australian Open final.
The 22-time Grand Slam winner, who retired from tennis in 2024, is set to attend the blockbuster title match in Melbourne.
A two-time Australian Open champion himself, Nadal believes world number one Alcaraz is the clear favourite, but would not be surprised if 38-year-old Djokovic caused an upset.
"I think the favourite is Carlos," 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.
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