Australian Open 2026: 'If Conditions Are Hot, Alcaraz Has the Edge,' Rod Laver Predicts
Just over a week before the Australian Open kickoff, predictions are rife about the winners of the 2026 edition.
In the men's draw, Carlos Alcaraz—still seeking his first Melbourne title—and Jannik Sinner, the two-time defending champion, logically emerge as the top favorites.
“If the conditions are hot, Alcaraz has an advantage”
After missing the 2025 edition, Rod Laver will return to the stands of the iconic court named after him. He discussed who, in his opinion, could win the tournament between Alcaraz and Sinner:
“Many players could win it. Of course, Alcaraz and Sinner are at the top of the list as their rivalry intensifies. Sinner continues to solidify his game and he is the two-time defending champion.
But if the conditions are hot, I would say Carlos has an advantage, and his thirst for victory will be stronger than ever, especially since he has never won it before.
And I would never count out Novak Djokovic—he loves the conditions in Australia.”
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