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Novak Djokovic said it was "weird" to see Rafael Nadal sat in the stands and not on court during the 2026 Australian Open final. Nadal was among the thousands of spectators watching Carlos Alcaraz defeat Djokovic in the final on Rod Laver Arena, with the Spanish ace triumphing 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5.

As a result, Alcaraz becomes the youngest-ever player to achieve the Career Grand Slam, having now won a remarkable seven singles titles aged just 22. He also denied Djokovic his own piece of history, with the Serb's dreams of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title dashed by the effervescent Alcaraz.

It wasn't to be in the end, but Djokovic remained in good spirits post-match, and was quick to reference his former foe Nadal in the on-court debrief. Pointing towards the onlooking Nadal, Djokovic remarked: "I also want to speak to the legendary Rafa [Nadal] who is in the stands.

"Obviously it feels very weird to see you there and not here. I just want to say it has been an honour to share the court with you. To have you here watching this final, first time for me, it is a strange feeling but thank you for being present. Too many Spanish legends, it felt like I was two against one tonight!"

Nadal wasn't the only Spaniard Djokovic praised during his on-court interview, with the 24-time Grand Slam champion also full of kind words for opponent Alcaraz. On Alcaraz's achievement, Djokovic said: "Of course, congratulations Carlos. An amazing tournament and an amazing couple of weeks. What you have been doing, the best word to describe it is historic. Legendary.

"I wish you best of luck for the rest of your career. You are so young you have a lot of time, like myself. I am sure we will be seeing a lot of each other over the next 10 years... not! I also have to thank my team for enduring me and giving me support. It hasn't been smooth sailing as it never is. You guys were my rock and you have seen the best and worst of me over the last few years but in particular the last three weeks."