Federer: It’s incredible that Alcaraz might complete the career Grand Slam; our playing styles are similar, but coaching him is not possible now.

With the Australian Open main draw about to begin, this tournament holds special significance for Alcaraz. If the Spanish prodigy lifts the trophy in Melbourne this year, he will become one of the youngest players in tennis history to achieve a career Grand Slam.

Regarding this, Federer addressed the topic at today’s press conference, noting the difficulty due to the intense competition in Grand Slam events. “As I’ve said before, momentum shifts after the first round, and players fight point by point. Honestly, if he manages to complete the career Grand Slam now, that would be truly extraordinary.”

However, Federer believes it’s not impossible, as everything will become clear once the tournament starts. “Let’s see if he can work this miracle this week. I hope he does, because it would be an incredible and special moment for tennis. But keep in mind, there are over a hundred other players saying, ‘We won’t let him have it easily,’ and they will all try to stop him.”

Federer shows great admiration for the young talent and especially highlights their similarities: “Watching Carlos play, I feel we share many traits.” He elaborated, “For example, when to hit drop shots, when to approach the net, and when to defend or attack — we both like to play at our own pace. So, watching Carlos makes it easier for me to see things from his perspective.”

Currently, Alcaraz holds six Grand Slam titles — two each at Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and the US Open — but the Australian Open trophy has so far eluded him. Federer himself understands the challenge of pursuing a career Grand Slam, as he only completed his in 2009 at age 27 with his French Open victory.

“It’s like Rory McIlroy chasing a Masters title — these achievements are very hard to attain,” Federer compared Alcaraz’s pursuit to the quest of the golf legend.

The men’s tennis landscape has shifted significantly over the past two years, with Alcaraz and Sinner splitting the last eight Grand Slam titles, ushering in a new era of dual rivalry. For Alcaraz, his biggest competitor in achieving the Grand Slam is Sinner. They have faced off in many thrilling Grand Slam matches but have yet to meet at Melbourne Park.

Federer praised their rivalry: “I think the competition between Alcaraz and Sinner is fantastic; they’ve played some unbelievable tennis.” He specifically mentioned last year’s French Open final: “That final was surreal. While the sport may not always need matches like that, having them is truly wonderful.”

When asked if he might coach Alcaraz in the future, Federer laughed and replied, “Coach? Nothing is certain; Edberg said the same once.” But he quickly added, “Right now, I’m very busy with four kids to look after, so it’s impossible at the moment.”

In fact, Federer made it clear back in 2025 that he no longer considered coaching after retirement, wanting to dedicate more time to his family. He explained then, “Not now, I’m focusing on my children. This is a very fun and important time before they grow up and leave home.”

Will Alcaraz achieve the career Grand Slam at this Australian Open? As the breeze gently sweeps across the courts in Melbourne, the answer will soon be revealed under the bright sunshine.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)