Rafael Nadal has made his return to Melbourne for the 2026 Australian Open, but this time he will watch from the sidelines rather than participate. Known for his fierce rivalry with Novak Djokovic, Nadal expressed respect for the seasoned athlete, who is vying for a record 11th Australian Open title against rising star Carlos Alcaraz.
Their storied history includes the unforgettable 2012 Australian Open final, which is often hailed as one of the greatest matches in tennis history. That epic battle between the world’s top two players lasted an astounding five hours and 53 minutes, featuring intense rallies and remarkable performances that tested both athletes to their physical and emotional limits. Ultimately, Djokovic emerged victorious, winning a nail-biting contest that ended at 1:37 am.
Despite the defeat, Nadal cherished the experience of that match, noting its significance and the high level of play displayed by both competitors. “This one was very special,” he reflected, emphasizing that the way they played was more important than the score.
Now, with a newfound perspective as a retired player, Nadal praised Djokovic for his enduring competitiveness, even as he recognizes that the Serbian star is no longer at his prime. “Novak, for obvious reasons, he’s not at his prime. But he is still very, very competitive at an age that is difficult to be very competitive. Full respect,” Nadal stated.
However, Nadal indicated that his loyalty in the final lies with Alcaraz, the world No.1, who has already proven his resilience and tenacity by overcoming a grueling five-set semifinal against Alexander Zverev, including a dramatic comeback after suffering from cramps. “If Novak wins, I will be happy for him because in some ways, it is spectacular what he’s doing at this stage of his career,” Nadal remarked. “But if I have to support someone, I feel I have to support Carlos.”
Alcaraz’s remarkable journey to the final has made waves in the tennis community, showcasing his tenacity and belief in his abilities despite facing formidable challenges. “You have to believe in yourself no matter what,” Alcaraz asserted, a mantra that resonates with his fans and future generations of players.
As the final approaches, the anticipation builds for another thrilling chapter in the storied rivalry between experience and youth, with Nadal looking on with both admiration and hope for the next generation.