Tennis experts Sam Querrey and Mary Joe Fernandez offer contrasting predictions for Sunday’s Australian Open final between Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic. Both players aim to make history at the first Grand Slam of the year, with Djokovic holding a 5-4 edge in their head-to-head matchups.
Djokovic Chases Record-Breaking Milestone
The Serbian star seeks his 25th Grand Slam title, which would establish an outright record and make him the oldest male winner in the Open Era. As a 10-time champion at Melbourne Park, Djokovic has not claimed a major since the 2023 US Open. He previously defeated Alcaraz in the quarterfinals at this tournament last year.
Alcaraz Eyes Youngest Career Grand Slam
The 22-year-old Spaniard aims to become the youngest man in the Open Era to complete a Career Grand Slam. A victory over Djokovic would surpass Rafael Nadal’s record, as Nadal was 24 when he achieved the feat at the 2010 US Open.
Pundits’ Divergent Views
Former American player Sam Querrey favors Alcaraz to reach this milestone. In a recent podcast discussion, he stated: “I think Carlos [will win], but I don’t feel [comfortable] saying it. After what I saw from Novak, I am excited.”
Conversely, former Australian Open doubles champion Mary Joe Fernandez supports Djokovic. During a live ESPN broadcast, she explained: “Sentimental favourite, Novak Djokovic. He’s trying to do what [Elena] Rybakina just did by beating [Iga] Swiatek and [Aryna] Sabalenka, number one and two in the world. I think the stars are aligned. A lot of things going his way in this Australian Open. So I’m going to go with Novak. I mean, he’s superhuman. Remember, Alcaraz, as well as Novak, they’re gonna be feeling it physically, and I just think Novak has the experience at this level. He’s going for a title, what? 11, 11 down under.”
Djokovic’s Strong Semi-Final Performance
Following his five-set semifinal victory over Jannik Sinner at 1:30 a.m. on Saturday, Djokovic addressed the Rod Laver Arena crowd, saying it felt like he had already secured the title. He later described the match as one of his strongest in recent years, especially against a two-time defending champion playing at the peak of his form. Djokovic remarked: “To be honest, I wouldn’t dare to call it the finest ever, but definitely the finest in the last couple of years. Under the circumstances and semis against, you know, Sinner, who has been playing best tennis of his life in last couple of years, particularly here, two-time defending champion, doesn’t get better than this.” He now prepares to replicate that intensity in the final.
