Roger Federer, the Swiss tennis legend, has expressed his support for world number one Carlos Alcaraz ahead of the 2026 Australian Open, saying he hopes the young Spaniard can claim the Melbourne title and become the youngest man in history to complete the career Grand Slam.
At just 22 years old, Alcaraz already boasts an impressive collection of six Grand Slam titles, with two Wimbledon, two French Open, and two US Open victories. The Australian Open remains the only major missing from his trophy cabinet, and Federer believes the Spaniard has the talent and temperament to achieve the feat.
“At his young age, completing the career Grand Slam would be crazy,” Federer said during a news conference at Melbourne Park.
“Let’s see if he is able to do crazy this week. I hope he does because for the game it would be an unbelievably special moment.”
Alcaraz Eyes Historic Milestone
If successful, Alcaraz would join an elite list of players who have won all four major titles — Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Andre Agassi — while also becoming the youngest male player to complete the set.
Federer, who himself completed the career Grand Slam with his 2009 French Open triumph, noted that achieving all four majors is never straightforward.
“It’s like Rory [McIlroy] going for the Masters — those things are tough,” he explained.
Despite the challenge, Federer is confident Alcaraz’s skill, work ethic, and composure under pressure make him a strong contender for Melbourne.
A Rivalry to Rival Federer’s Own
Alcaraz has developed an intense rivalry with Italy’s Jannik Sinner, which has dominated men’s tennis over the past three seasons. Between them, the pair have contested the past three Grand Slam finals and shared the last eight major titles.
Federer, who retired in 2022 without ever facing Alcaraz or Sinner in a competitive match, has been impressed by their progression.
“What we’ve seen in terms of their progression in the last years, it’s been wonderful,” Federer said.
“I practised with those guys a little bit. They’re incredible ball strikers. There’s obviously more to come. I just hope they stay injury-free.”
Fans have drawn comparisons between the Alcaraz-Sinner rivalry and Federer’s own legendary battles with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, highlighting the potential for a golden era of men’s tennis in the coming years.
Federer’s First Return to Melbourne Since Retirement
Federer is in Melbourne for the first time since 2020, attending a special ceremony on Saturday to honour his storied career. The 44-year-old retired with 20 Grand Slam titles, including a record eight Wimbledon crowns, and 103 ATP Tour victories.
Despite his retirement, Federer says he is enjoying life away from the professional tour:
“I’m finding retirement much easier than I anticipated. I get to spend more time at home with my family. I love being on court with my kids and watching tennis as a fan.”
He also confirmed that he has no plans to move into coaching, citing family commitments.
“Never say never. [Stefan] Edberg said the same. I’m very busy, I’ve got four children. No chance for the moment.”
Australian Open 2026 Preview
Alcaraz will start the tournament as the men’s world number one and a firm favourite for the title. His powerful groundstrokes, exceptional movement, and mental resilience have made him one of the most formidable players on the ATP Tour.
With Federer’s public backing and the world watching, a victory in Melbourne would not only complete the career Grand Slam for Alcaraz but also cement his status as one of the brightest young stars in tennis history.
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