Tennis experts Sam Querrey and Mary Joe Fernandez offer differing 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 winner in the Open Era. Djokovic, a 10-time champion at Melbourne Park, last triumphed at a major during 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 pursues a place in history as the youngest man in the Open Era to complete the Career Grand Slam. A victory over Djokovic would surpass Rafael Nadal’s mark, set at age 24 with his 2010 US Open win.
Querrey Backs Alcaraz Despite Hesitation
Former American pro Sam Querrey favors Alcaraz to achieve the feat. 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 Predicts Djokovic Triumph
Former Australian Open doubles champion Mary Joe Fernandez supports Djokovic. During an ESPN broadcast, she explained: “Sentimental favorite, 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 Stellar 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, adding: “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 replicate that form in the final.
