Rafael Nadal Chooses Side in Historic Australian Open Final
Tennis legend Rafael Nadal has declared his allegiance ahead of Sunday's highly anticipated Australian Open final, where his compatriot Carlos Alcaraz faces his long-time rival Novak Djokovic. The two-time Australian Open champion and 22-time grand slam winner will be present at the Rod Laver Arena to watch the historic clash, marking his first return to the tournament since retiring from professional tennis in 2024.
Nadal's Personal Connections to Both Finalists
Nadal shares deep connections with both players competing for the title. His legendary rivalry with Djokovic includes their epic 2012 Australian Open final, which remains the longest grand slam final in history at five hours and 53 minutes. Meanwhile, his relationship with Alcaraz extends to representing Spain together at the Olympic Games, with the younger Spaniard now following in Nadal's footsteps as a rising star of the sport.
Speaking through the Australian Open website, Nadal expressed his complex feelings about the match-up. "Carlos is from my country. I have a good relationship with him. We shared the Olympic Games together. We shared the Spanish team," Nadal stated. "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. But if I have to support someone, I support Carlos."
Historic Stakes for Both Competitors
The final carries monumental significance for both players:
- Novak Djokovic, at 38 years old, stands one victory away from claiming his 25th grand slam singles title. This achievement would grant him sole ownership of the all-time record and establish him as the oldest grand slam champion in the Open era.
- Carlos Alcaraz, at just 22, could become the youngest man in tennis history to complete the career grand slam with an Australian Open victory, adding the final piece to his collection of major titles.
Nadal's Respect for Djokovic's Longevity
Despite supporting Alcaraz, Nadal expressed profound admiration for Djokovic's enduring excellence. "With Novak, we had an amazing story," Nadal reflected. "All those years competing for the most important things. I think it's a positive example of commitment, resilience and in some ways it's a positive thing to have somebody like him, at his age, fighting with the players that are younger and they are at the prime."
Nadal continued: "Novak, for obvious reasons, he's not at his prime, but still very, very competitive at an age that is difficult to be very competitive now. So full respect, full credit to him."
A New Perspective as a Spectator
Nadal revealed he is approaching the final with a completely different mindset than during his playing days. "That part of my life is over," he said. "Of course it's forever going to be in my heart. I have a completely different mindset. Much more relaxed. No pressure at all. It's going to be a pleasure to watch the final [in person]. I haven't been in a professional match for a while. I just want to enjoy another great battle and a great level of tennis."
The Spanish champion's own Melbourne memories include his remarkable 2022 victory, when at 35 years old and battling physical limitations, he staged an epic comeback from two sets down to defeat Daniil Medvedev over five hours and 24 minutes, claiming his 21st grand slam title. Four years later, his great rival Djokovic continues to compete at the highest level, now aiming to make history once again at 38.
