Who Will Win the Australian Open? Nadal Places His Bet on Novak Djokovic v Carlos Alcaraz

As the Australian Open prepares for a generational men's final, one question has carried unusual weight: who will Rafael Nadal be backing when Novak Djokovic faces Carlos Alcaraz?

Asked by Australian broadcasters ahead of Sunday's showdown, Nadal admitted the decision was far from straightforward. His nearly two-decade rivalry with Djokovic shaped one of the greatest races in tennis, built on sustained excellence and deep mutual respect. At the same time, Alcaraz is Nadal's compatriot, a player with whom he shared the Spanish team and the Olympic Games, and the clearest heir to Spain's tennis legacy.

In some way, with Novak, we had an amazing story, with all those years competing for the most important things, and I wish him all the very best,"

Nadal said. "But of course, Carlos is from my country, I have a good relationship with him," he added.

Nadal was careful to stress there would be no disappointment either way. "If Novak wins, I will be happy for him, because in some ways, what he's doing at this stage of his career is quite spectacular," he said.

He finally admitted, "It will not be a drama for me, but if I have to support someone, I feel I have to support Carlos. "

What's at stake in the Australian Open final

Beyond Nadal's loyalties, Sunday's final carries historic implications for both players. Djokovic, 38, is chasing a record-extending 11th Australian Open title, and a 25th Grand Slam crown that would clear him of Margaret Court and make him the oldest men's champion in Melbourne.

Alcaraz, 22, is aiming to become the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam, a feat Nadal himself achieved at 24.

Both reached the final after an epic five-set semi-final. Djokovic outlasted Jannik Sinner in over four hours, saving 16 of 18 breaking points, while Alcaraz survived a record 5hour 27 minute battle against Alexander Zverev, overcoming severe cramping to prevail.

Djokovic leads their head-to-head 5-4, though margins have been razor-thin. Alcaraz will remain world No.1 regardless of the result, with Djokovic set to rise to third.

For Nadal, however, the final represents something more personal: a rare moment where the past and future of men's tennis meet on the same court- and where respect for a historic rival gently yields to hope for a countryman carrying the torch forward.