Nadal on possibility of Djokovic winning 25th Grand Slam: 'It's over!'

Nadal, who ends his professional career in 2024 with 22 Grand Slam titles, has been keeping a close eye on events at the Australian Open. Where Djokovic came close to a historic success, but was defeated in the final by the young Carlos Alcaraz (6-2, 2-6, 3-6, 5-7).

Rafael Nadal: “To be honest, I don't think he has many chances left”

Speaking at a charity golf tournament in Madrid, Nadal openly commented on Djokovic's current position. Asked if the Serb can still reach his 25th trophy, he said:

“It's over. I think we shouldn't judge tennis just by who wins. He had a chance in Melbourne and at this stage of his career, to be honest, he doesn't have many chances left. It wouldn't be good or bad for tennis. However, what he's achieving is absolutely admirable.”said Rafael Nadal, according to sportal.blic.rs.

The Spaniard emphasized that he is enjoying life after retiring from professional tennis and that he follows his former rivals' matches as a fan.

“I feel calmer, with no strange feelings, because my time here ended exactly as it should have. I have extended my career more than I could have ever imagined. Now I am completely happy to see my peers succeed and in a way I enjoy their success“, added the Spaniard.

Rafael Nadal was present at the Australian Open 2026 final, match between Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz

The rivalry between Djokovic and Nadal is considered one of the greatest in tennis history. Novak Djokovic holds the record for the most Grand Slam tournaments with 24 titles won, the last coming at the US Open in 2023.

• Novak Djokovic – 24 Grand Slam titles: Australian Open – 10, Roland Garros – 3, Wimbledon – 7, US Open – 4

• Rafael Nadal – 22 Grand Slam titles: Australian Open – 2, Roland Garros – 14, Wimbledon – 2, US Open – 4

The two met a record 60 times between 2006 and 2024. Djokovic has 31 wins, while Nadal has 29.

2012 Australian Open Final