Arguably Novak Djokovic's fiercest rival, Rafael Nadal has declared the super Serb past his prime but fully respects him for making a record-extending 11th Australian Open final.
Djokovic defied dual defending champion Jannik Sinner in an unforgettable semi-final in the early hours of Saturday morning to qualify for another Melbourne Park decider.
Exhausted when fronting a media conference at around 3am, Djokovic even compared the match to his legendary 2012 battle against Nadal on the same court at Rod Laver Arena.
The Spaniard - back in Melbourne due to an arrangement with the tournament's major sponsor, Kia - said he wished he were still playing, after ending his career in 2024.
"I really believe that he (Djokovic) is here for one simple reason - because if I don't get injured, probably I will be here playing, too," Nadal said at Melbourne Park on Saturday.
"When you like to do this thing, if you are not injured ... why wouldn't you be here?
"It's a positive example of commitment, of resilience.
"Novak, for obvious reasons, he's not at his prime. But he is still very, very competitive at an age that is difficult to be very competitive.
"Full respect.
"This is a bit of a legacy for the next generations - we have shown that by doing things well, being professional, having the excitement, the motivation and the passion for what you do and a good team behind you, you can go further."
Djokovic is already two major titles clear of Nadal's 22, with the opportunity to stand alone on 25, ahead of Margaret Court, if he claims glory in Sunday night's final.
But that's not the reason why Nadal won't be supporting Djokovic.
For obvious reasons, young Spanish superstar Carlos Alcaraz has established a close bond with his childhood idol.
"If Novak wins, I will be happy for him because in some ways, it is spectacular what he's doing at this stage of his career," Nadal said.
"So I will be happy. It will not be a drama for me.
"But if I have to support someone, I feel I have to support Carlos."
