Novak Djokovic is again making noise around the Australian Open, but it’s in his favor this time.
The Serbian star recently had his three-year visa ban overturned and will be allowed to participate in 2023’s first Grand Slam.
The aging nine-time Aussie Open champion jumped out as an early favorite in a field of rising stars. Here’s an early look at odds and favorites from the top US sportsbook apps.
2023 Australian Open Odds
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The Favorites
Only one person not named Djokovic, Federer, or Nadal has won an Aussie Open title since 2005 (Stan Wawrinka).
Federer has now sailed off into the sunset, but Rafa and the Joker haven’t missed a beat. Will the guard change this year with young superstars like Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev in the mix?
Novak Djokovic +130
The Aussie Open is nicknamed the “Happy Slam” for its perfect weather, upbeat crowds, and party vibes. No one will be happier at next year’s Slam than Novak Djokovic, whose three-year winning streak was halted due to his deportation in 2022.
Almost half of the Serbian’s GS titles have come down under, so it’s easy to see why he’s the clear favorite on the men’s side.
It’s been a tumultuous year for Djokovic. He missed not just the Aussie Open but also the US Open due to his vaccination status. He sits just one title back of Rafael Nadal for the most Grand Slam men’s championships of all time.
The tennis legend will turn 36 in 2023, so the clock is ticking if he’s going to cement himself atop the record books.
Carlos Alcaraz +460
Carlos Alcaraz put the tennis world on notice at the US Open in September. The 19-year-old phenom dazzled the crowds at Arthur Ashe with his acrobatic play and unmatched stamina.
Alcaraz claimed his first of what should be many Grand Slams after defeating Casper Ruud in the final.
He won’t take anyone by surprise at the Aussie. The current world No. 1 has the second shortest odds and is expected to be one of the last men standing on the hard court.
Marco Berrettini ousted Alcaraz in the third round of the 2022 Aussie Open.
Daniil Medvedev +500
After Djokovic got the boot, Medvedev was the favorite heading into last year’s Open. The former world No. 1 came up just short. He lost to Rafael Nadal in a five-set epic in the final.
The Moscow native has lost in the final two consecutive years. Medvedev has
recently slipped in the rankings, falling to No. 5 on the ATP Tour. The Russian is stuck on one Grand Slam title (2021 US Open) but is still just 26 years old.
Rafael Nadal +1200
These odds seem a bit disrespectful for arguably the greatest men’s player to swing a racket. Not only does Nadal hold the most Grand Slam titles of all time, but he’s also the reigning champ at the Aussie Open.
The 36-year-old proved last year he still has plenty in the tank. His dramatic five-set finals victory over Medvedev came after trailing two sets to love.
Rafa followed that up with his 14th French Open title. That makes him the sole leader with 22 Grand Slams. He’s currently ranked No.2 worldwide.
Previous Australian Open Men’s Champions
2022 Rafael Nadal
2021 Novak Djokovic
2020 Novak Djokovic
2019 Novak Djokovic
2018 Roger Federer
2017 Roger Federer
2016 Novak Djokovic
2015 Novak Djokovic
2014 Stan Wawrinka
2013 Novak Djokovic
2012 Novak Djokovic
2011 Novak Djokovic
