Melbourne has been Djokovic’s second home and he is rarely defeated Down Under. Alcaraz is aiming to ruffle the world No 1’s feathers to claim his third Grand Slam title. But Djokovic believes his biggest threat is a lot closer to home.
“Myself always first, and then of course all the other best players in the world,” he said when asked who his biggest threat was.
“Any player is here with, I’m sure, intention to achieve the dream of winning a Grand Slam. Some players are obviously more expected to go further than some others.”
Djokovic is on a difficult run of form by his own standard having lost to Alex De Minaur at the United Cup. He was also beaten by Alcaraz in an exhibition match over the festive period.
“I’m just hoping I can start the season in a way that I have been starting my seasons, most of my seasons … with a win here in Australia, in Melbourne,” Djokovic added.
“My favourite place, no doubt; the court where I’ve done great things and achieved my greatest Grand Slam results. That was one of the best tennis levels that I’ve played, here in Australia last year.”
Alcaraz is in the opposite side of the Australian Open draw to Djokovic meaning the pair can only meeting in the final. And the young Spaniard is gunning to get one over his experienced rival.
“Yeah, it’s an extra motivation for me,” Alcaraz said. “I’m an ambitious guy. I always want to play against the best players in the world to see what is my level.
“Obviously it’s a good test, playing against him in the places or in the tournament that he’s almost unbeaten.
“I’m looking to reach the final and hopefully play a final against him. It would be great obviously. But, yeah, knowing those stats, it’s an extra motivation, for sure.”
