Carlos Alcaraz has pinpointed Novak Djokovic’s motivation and ability to deliver in high-stakes tournaments as key factors that could make the Serbian a formidable contender for the 2025 Australian Open title. Speaking during a media conference at the ATP Finals, Alcaraz acknowledged Djokovic’s record at Melbourne Park, where he has claimed 10 titles, and his capacity to perform at an elite level despite limited competition throughout the season.
Djokovic, now 37, has shifted his focus toward Grand Slam events, skipping smaller tournaments to conserve his energy. Though he fell short of a Major title in 2024—marking the first time since 2017 he ended a season without one—Djokovic remains a potent threat. His stellar 2023 campaign, which included three Grand Slam wins, reinforces his capability to dominate at the sport’s highest level.
Alcaraz, who defeated Djokovic in straight sets in the Wimbledon final this year, acknowledged the unique challenge posed by the Serbian legend. “A really dangerous player,” Alcaraz said when asked about Djokovic’s prospects in Australia. “He deserves to choose what tournaments he’s going to play. We’ve seen before that it doesn’t matter that he doesn’t play an official match for two, three, four months. He can come back, win the tournament, and show a really high level of tennis.”
Alcaraz emphasized that Djokovic’s hunger and preparation could be the deciding factors in his quest for an 11th Australian Open crown. “In Australia, it depends on how hungry he is,” he said. “If he goes with hunger, he is going to be one of the favorites. He’s going to be fresh, for sure, with a lot of time with his family, kids, and wife. Having that time to practice is pretty good for a tennis player coming to a tournament with motivation.”
Djokovic’s decision to prioritize rest and training ahead of the Australian Open reflects his meticulous approach to extending his remarkable career. With a record 24 Grand Slam singles titles under his belt, Djokovic remains driven to add more to his tally. As Alcaraz pointed out, the Serbian’s blend of experience, skill, and determination will make him a player to watch in Melbourne.
The 2025 Australian Open promises to be another thrilling chapter in Djokovic’s storied career, with fans and players alike eager to see if his hunger and preparation can once again lead him to victory.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2024
Now the world no.3, Carlos played his last match on the 15th of November when he was defeated by world no.2 Alexander Zverev 7-6(5) 6-4 in the round robin in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
Presently, during this year Alcaraz has an overall 53-13 match record. Alcaraz clinched 4 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells, French Open, Wimbledon and Beijing. The Spaniard was the runner-up in Paris.
Carlos Alcaraz will fight against the world no.365 Gabi Adrian Boitan in the . In the past, they have never played each other until now in top events.
The Spaniard clinched 4 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells, French Open, Wimbledon and Beijing. The Spaniard got to the final in Paris (Olympics).
Alcaraz won 17 titles in his career: 5 on hard courts, 8 on clay courts, 1 on indoor courts and 3 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)
Novak Djokovic in 2024
Now ranked no.6, Novak played his last contest on the 13th of October when he lost to world no.1 Jannik Sinner 7-6(4) 6-3 in the final in Shanghai (draw).
This season Novak has managed to achieve a compiled 37-9 record. The Serbian clinched 1 title in Paris. The Serbian was the runner-up in Wimbledon and Shanghai.
Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic fought against each other 7 times. Their head to head is 4-3 for Djokovic. Before, the last time they locked horns, Novak Djokovic won 7-6(3) 7-6(2) in the final in Paris (Olympics) on the 4th of August 2024.
Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic |
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Carlos Alcaraz in 2024
Ranked world no.3, the Spaniard played his last match on the 15th of November when he lost to world no.2 Alexander Zverev 7-6(5) 6-4 in the round robin in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
During this season Carlos has an overall 53-13 match record. Alcaraz clinched 4 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells, French Open, Wimbledon and Beijing. Carlos got to the final in Paris.
Carlos Alcaraz will compete against the world no.365 Gabi Adrian Boitan in the . They have never played each other so far in top tournaments.
The Spaniard conquered 4 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells, French Open, Wimbledon and Beijing. Alcaraz was the finalist in Paris (Olympics).
The Spaniard won 17 titles in his career: 5 on hard courts, 8 on clay courts, 1 on indoor courts and 3 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)
Novak Djokovic in 2024
Currently the world no.6, Novak played his last contest on the 13th of October when he was overcome by world no.1 Jannik Sinner 7-6(4) 6-3 in the final in Shanghai (draw).
During this season Djokovic has managed to achieve a compiled 37-9 record. The Serbian has won 1 title in Paris. Djokovic was the finalist in Wimbledon and Shanghai.
Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic clashed against each other 7 times. Their current record is 4-3 for Djokovic. Previously, the last time they squared off, Novak Djokovic won 7-6(3) 7-6(2) in the final in Paris (Olympics) on the 4th of August 2024.
Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic |
| Embed from Getty Images |