Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam champion, has expressed his support for Carlos Alcaraz to win the Australian Open title, despite having “full respect” for his rival Novak Djokovic. Nadal believes Alcaraz, the world number one, has a better chance of recovering from his epic semi-final win over Alexander Zverev, which lasted five hours and 27 minutes. Djokovic, on the other hand, will be looking to become the oldest man to win a Grand Slam title at 38, and secure a record 25th major trophy.
Nadal praised Djokovic’s commitment and resilience, saying it’s a “positive example” for the sport, but thinks Alcaraz’s youth and energy give him an edge. “I think Carlos has more possibilities of recovering almost better than Novak,” Nadal said. Alcaraz is chasing his seventh Grand Slam title and aims to become the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam.
