Rafael Nadal reveals who he will support in Alcaraz–Djokovic Australian Open final
NewsSaturday, 31 January 2026 at 12:14
Rafael Nadal is back at the Australian Open, and he will be in the stands for the men's singles final between Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz.
Although the Australian Open is one of Nadal's two least successful major tournaments, he enjoyed his crowning moments in Melbourne as well. The legendary Spaniard is a two-time champion, having won titles in 2009 and 2022.
After Roger Federer was part of the opening of this year's Australian Open, Nadal will be part of the closing of this year's first major tournament. He is already in Melbourne, Australia, and will also be present for the men's singles final. He, along with Ash Barty and Dylan Alcott, will be celebrated during the Night of Legends event at the Kia Arena on Sunday.
The reason why Nadal is in Melbourne is tied to one of his main sponsors, Kia. The car manufacturer celebrates its 25th anniversary as one of the main sponsors for the Australian Open, so Nadal should be part of the celebrations as well.
Since he will be at Melbourne Park anyway, Nadal, of course, won't miss the men's singles final at the Australian Open. History is on the line, as regardless of whether Carlos Alcaraz or Novak Djokovic lifts the trophy, history will be made.
If Alcaraz wins this year's Australian Open, he will become the youngest man ever to complete a career Grand Slam. If Djokovic wins the title, he will become the first person ever to win 25 major titles.
Nadal will be watching, and ahead of the final, he was asked about his favorite. He shares a lot of history with Djokovic, but Alcaraz is his compatriot, and they even played in the 2024 Paris Olympics together, so Nadal will side with the young Spaniard also for the Australian Open final.
"Honestly, I have mixed feelings because my history with Novak is spectacular. We competed at the highest level for many years, and I wish him all the best. Honestly, if he wins, I'll be very happy for him."
"But on the other hand, Carlos is my compatriot, and we've shared important moments at the Olympic Games, so I have to support him. In any case, there won't be any drama for me no matter what happens."
Nadal 'not surprised' by Djokovic's heroic final run at the Australian Open
While in Melbourne, Nadal spoke not only about the upcoming final but also about his rival, Djokovic. The Serbian legend was able to stun the ATP world No. 2, Jannik Sinner, and secure a spot in the final. Nadal, like Djokovic, wasn't surprised that his former rival was able to deliver such a masterful performance.
"It doesn't surprise me to see Novak in the final. Why not? I'd be competing too if it weren't for the injuries. If you're not exhausted from everything that tennis entails, you can keep going. It's very positive for our sport that he's still active and able to compete on equal terms with younger players."
"He's not at his peak, but he still has everything he needs to achieve great success. He deserves a lot of respect; I consider Novak a great example of resilience and commitment for everyone."
Nadal says Alcaraz 'hasn't asked' for his advice because 'he doesn't need it'
With Nadal openly admitting he will support Alcaraz in the upcoming final, and the two being relatively close together through their ties as Spaniards, the 39-year-old was also asked whether he gave his compatriot any advice.
Especially after Alcaraz shockingly parted ways with Juan Carlos Ferrero earlier this year, many fans started thinking that Nadal could become Alcaraz's future coach. However, the 22-time major winner thinks Alcaraz doesn't need his advice.
"He's a true professional, he has a great team, and he hasn't asked me for advice because he really doesn't need it."
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