Tennis experts Sam Querrey and Mary Joe Fernandez offer contrasting predictions for Sunday’s Australian Open final between Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic. Both competitors seek historic achievements at this year’s opening Grand Slam, where Djokovic holds a 5-4 edge in their head-to-head matchups.
Djokovic Chases Record-Breaking Milestone
The Serbian star aims to claim a record 25th Grand Slam title and become the oldest male champion in the Open Era. Djokovic, a 10-time winner at Melbourne Park, last captured a major at the 2023 US Open. He previously defeated Alcaraz in the quarterfinals here last year.
Alcaraz Eyes Youngest Career Grand Slam
The 22-year-old Spaniard targets becoming the youngest man in the Open Era to complete the Career Grand Slam. A victory over Djokovic would surpass Rafael Nadal’s mark, as Nadal was 24 when he achieved it at the 2010 US Open.
Querrey Backs Alcaraz for the Win
Former American pro Sam Querrey predicts Alcaraz will prevail. On the Nothing Major podcast, he stated: “I think Carlos [will win], but I don’t feel [comfortable] saying it. After what I saw from Novak, I am excited.”
Fernandez Favors Djokovic’s Experience
In contrast, former Australian Open doubles champion Mary Joe Fernandez supports Djokovic. During an 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 Semifinal 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, stating: “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.” Djokovic now prepares to maintain that form in the final.
