"As Djoko would say it's weird seeing Rafa in the stands": Carlos Alcaraz addresses Rafael Nadal after sealing Australian Open title

Carlos Alcaraz capped a historic 2026 Australian Open campaign by defeating Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 in a thrilling final, becoming the youngest man ever to complete a career Grand Slam.

Speaking on court after his victory, the 22-year-old reflected on the match, his journey, and the support that has fueled his rise as well as pointing out a certain Rafael Nadal being there like Djokovic did.

“Wow… first of all, I just wanted to talk about Novak,” Alcaraz began on court post match. “I think he deserves an ovation for sure. What you’re doing is amazing. You’re talking about how I’m doing amazing things, but what you’re doing is really inspiring, not only for tennis players, but for athletes and people around the world, for me as well.

"Just putting in the right work, hard work every day with your team, at every tournament, and playing such great tennis. For me, I just enjoy so much watching you play. It’s been an honour sharing the locker, sharing the court, and as I said, watching you play. So thank you very much for what you’re doing, because it’s really inspiring to me.”

Alcaraz paid heartfelt tribute to his team, emphasizing the unseen effort that went into securing the title. “My team over there, in that corner… I think nobody knows how hard I’ve been working to get this trophy. I just want to taste this moment so much, with so much appreciation. It’s been a little bit of an emotional rollercoaster, and we went through, let’s say, not hearing much about what people were saying before coming to Australia. But we just did the right work. They were pushing me every day to do all the right things. So I’ve got to say, I’m really grateful for everyone I have in the corner right now. As I said, this trophy is always theirs as well.”

The Spaniard also acknowledged tennis legend Rafael Nadal, who was in attendance. “For me, it’s a little bit, as Djoko would say, weird, seeing Rafa in the stands.

"I think it’s the first time professional if I’m not wrong because I know he was watching me when I was like 14 or 15 years old. It’s been a long time. But for me, it’s such an honour playing in front of you.

"We had great battles on the court, not too many, but for me, it was an honour seeing the court, practising, playing matches in the locker. And now seeing you watching my matches, it’s just a privilege. Thank you very much for being here.”

Reflecting on the Australian Open itself, Alcaraz praised the tournament’s organisers and the energy of the fans. “Everyone who made this tournament possible. I’ve said this many times, the Australian Open is a great tournament for the players.

"The site here is amazing, and every year they make upgrades to make us feel comfortable. I really appreciate it and I’m grateful for everything they’re doing for us. I’m just really happy to come every year.

"It’s an honour to play here in Melbourne, and I think that privilege comes from the love I receive every year, the great support, the great love, not only during matches, but every time I step on the court for practice. I just feel the love from the people.”

Alcaraz concluded with a message of gratitude and optimism. “I want to say thank you, thank you very much for pushing me in the tough moments during the matches. I can say thank you very much, and I can’t wait to come back next year. Thank you.”

With this victory, Alcaraz not only secured his place in tennis history but also demonstrated the composure and maturity that have defined his rapid rise. At just 22, the Spaniard has proven that he is ready to carry the torch of the sport’s next generation, all while respecting the legends who came before him.