Djokovic Faces Alcaraz in Australian Open Final: Start Time, Head-to-Head

In a highly anticipated showdown, Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic are set to face each other in the men’s singles final of the Australian Open 2026. This epic match is scheduled for Sunday, February 1, at 19:30 local time (08:30 GMT), and will take place at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne, Australia.

Match Overview

This final not only promises thrilling tennis but also features significant career milestones for both competitors. Djokovic, at 38, aims to secure his 25th major title, breaking Margaret Court’s all-time record in the Open Era. Meanwhile, Alcaraz, 16 years younger than Djokovic, has his sights set on completing a Career Grand Slam by winning the only Grand Slam title missing from his trophy case.

How They Reached the Final

Both players showcased their determination in the semifinals. In a grueling five-set battle, Alcaraz overcame Alexander Zverev with a score of 6-4, 7-6 (7-5), 6-7 (3-7), 6-7 (4-7), 7-5. Djokovic triumphed over reigning champion Jannik Sinner in a four-hour, nine-minute contest, marking a significant victory in his quest for yet another title.

Roads to the Final

• Carlos Alcaraz:
  • First Round: Beat Adam Walton 6-3, 7-6 (7-2), 6-2
  • Second Round: Beat Yannick Hanfmann 7-6 (7-4), 6-3, 6-2
  • Third Round: Beat Corentin Moutet 6-2, 6-4, 6-1
  • Fourth Round: Beat Tommy Paul 7-6 (7-6), 6-4, 7-5
  • Quarterfinal: Beat Alex de Minaur 7-5, 6-2, 6-1
  • Semifinal: Beat Alexander Zverev 6-4, 7-6 (7-5), 6-7 (3-7), 6-7 (4-7), 7-5
• Novak Djokovic:
  • First Round: Beat Pedro Martinez 6-3, 6-2, 6-2
  • Second Round: Beat Francesco Maestrelli 6-3, 6-2, 6-2
  • Third Round: Beat Botic van de Zandschulp 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7-4)
  • Fourth Round: Beat Jakub Mensik via walkover
  • Quarterfinal: Beat Lorenzo Musetti 4-6, 3-6, 3-1 (retired)
  • Semifinal: Beat Jannik Sinner 3-6, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4

Head-to-Head Record

The rivalry between Djokovic and Alcaraz has become one of the most talked about in tennis. They have faced each other a total of nine times, with Djokovic leading their encounters 5-4. Their matches have often been intense, with each player showing unique strengths: Alcaraz’s agility and power against Djokovic’s experience and mental toughness.

Prize Money

The stakes are high, with the champion of the men’s singles set to earn $2.9 million, while the runner-up will take home $1.5 million. The total prize pool for the Australian Open 2026 is approximately $78.1 million.

Where to Watch

This final at the Australian Open 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark event in tennis history as Alcaraz strives for a major milestone while Djokovic aims to solidify his legacy.