Novak Djokovic has confidently predicted that Carlos Alcaraz will achieve a career Grand Slam “very soon,” applauding the young star’s remarkable accomplishments.
However, the Serbian icon also offered a word of caution to Alcaraz about focusing too much on breaking records and making history.
Seeded seventh and third, respectively, Djokovic and Alcaraz could meet in a thrilling quarter-final showdown at the 2025 Australian Open.
At just 21 years old, Alcaraz has the chance to become the youngest player to win all four Grand Slam tournaments if he secures victory at the ongoing Australian Open or one of the next two editions. The current record belongs to Rafael Nadal, who completed his career Grand Slam at 24 years and three months with his 2010 US Open win.
Meanwhile, Djokovic is chasing his 11th Australian Open crown and a record-extending 25th major title overall.
Alcaraz has openly declared his ambition to challenge Djokovic’s records, with the all-time Grand Slam tally firmly in his sights.
“Obviously, I keep thinking about Nole’s 24 Grand Slams, that’s clear,” Alcaraz admitted in February last year.
“I’m a very ambitious guy and I always want to think big, and I dream big — obviously Djokovic’s 24 is a goal at the end of my career.
“It is something that is inevitable to think about. I am very competitive and that is also what drives me to the highest level to try to be at the same level as the Big Three. The truth is that I dream big.”
In an interview with GQ, Djokovic discussed the possibility of Alcaraz, who already holds four major titles, surpassing his records.
“It’s too early. But, you know, people say my records will never be broken. I doubt that. I mean, Carlos could already be the next guy. Even Jannik [Sinner],” the former world No 1 said.
“If they take care of the body, if they do things in a proper way, focus on longevity, focus on the long-term, then they can do it.
“Carlos has done something no one has done in history for such a young age. So the odds are with him. He is going to complete his [career] Slam very soon.
“He’s even said himself, he wants to make history. He wants to be ‘the best in history.’ I respect that kind of mentality of, ‘Hey, I think I got the goods.’ But maybe it’s a little bit early for him to think about history.”
