The Australian Open men’s final has now arrived, with Novak Djokovic taking on Carlos Alcaraz in Melbourne.
Rod Laver Arena plays host to the final, with the iconic stadium named after Australian tennis legend Rod Laver.
He won 11 Grand Slam titles during his glittering career, triumphing in each of the four major tournaments at least twice.
But top of the all-time list is 24-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic, who needs just one more title to break the all-time tennis record.
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Rod Laver praises Novak Djokovic ahead of Australian Open final
Djokovic and indeed Alcaraz have now received a message from fellow icon Laver ahead of their Australian Open final.
He posted on X: “Good luck to Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz in tonight’s Australian Open men’s final.
“What Novak has achieved in tennis is beyond belief. Based on what we’ve seen so far, it’s impossible to pick a winner.
“Both will fight with everything they have. I’ll be cheering on from afar. Take it away, champions.”
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Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz routes to Australian Open final
Djokovic has indeed surprised many with his stunning career, typified by his Australian Open semifinal win over Jannik Sinner.
He beat the Italian ATP superstar in a five-set thriller at Rod Laver Arena, shortly after Alcaraz beat Alexander Zverev in similar style.
The two finalists have, however, had very different journeys to the final in Melbourne, which could play a key role when they meet on the court.
Both will be fatigued after their lengthy semifinals, but Djokovic should have an advantage thanks to his two walkovers earlier in the tournament.
| Novak Djokovic [4] | Round | Carlos Alcaraz [1] |
| Pedro Martiez | 1st round | Adam Walton |
| Francesco Maestrelli | 2nd round | Yannick Hanfmann |
| Botic van de Zandschulp | 3rd round | Corentin Moutet [32] |
| Jakub Mensik [16] (Walkover) | 4th round | Tommy Paul [19] |
| Lorenzo Musetti [5] (Walkover) | Quarterfinal | Alex de Minaur [6] |
| Jannik Sinner [2] | Semifinal | Alexander Zverev [3] |
Djokovic received a walkover in round four after Jakub Mensik withdrew from injury ahead of their match, before Lorenzo Musetti retired hurt during their quarterfinal clash.
However, at 22, Alcaraz is 16 years younger than Djokovic, which is another significant factor ahead of their latest battle.
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