Australian Open 2025: Why Novak Djokovic must ‘raise his game’ against Carlos Alcaraz in Melbourne
The last time the two met was in the 2024 Paris Olympic final, with Djokovic prevailing, but Alcaraz has prevailed in the past two Grand Slams.
Alcaraz defeated Djokovic in five sets in the 2023 Wimbledon final before defeating an out-of-form opponent who underwent knee surgery less than six weeks ago and defended his All England Club title last year.
Djokovic avenged his defeat on the faster grass courts to claim Olympic gold, and he performed well in three sets on the slower clay courts of Roland Garros, 7-6 (7-3 ) won 7-6 (7-2).
“Carlos is a very dynamic, explosive player. Incredible talent and charisma,” said Djokovic, who has won a record 24 men’s Grand Slam titles.
“We had some long battles, long exchanges. They reminded me of my matches with (Rafael) Nadal, the intensity and the energy on the court.”
Djokovic knows he may need to maintain the same intensity throughout five sets on Melbourne’s fast court.
The most anticipated match of the Australian Open so far will be the first time they play on a hard court Grand Slam.
“It’s not often that Djokovic is at a disadvantage in Melbourne, maybe for 15 years,” Australian Cash added.