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Novak Djokovic names surprise 2026 World Cup final prediction
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- Novak Djokovic names surprise 2026 World Cup final prediction
Photo by James D. Morgan/Getty Images
Novak Djokovic has made his prediction for the 2026 World Cup, naming Portugal as his pick to win the tournament and Mexico as the team he expects them to beat in the final.
The Serbian tennis great was asked for his view on the tournament and gave a direct answer.
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Djokovic did not pick one of the usual favourites for both places in the final. Instead, he backed Portugal to win the trophy and Mexico to go all the way to the final.
Novak Djokovic predicts Portugal will beat Mexico in the World Cup final
Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images via Getty Images
Djokovic was asked who he thinks will win the 2026 World Cup and replied: "Portugal."
He was then asked who Portugal would beat in the final.
Djokovic replied: "Mexico."
The prediction came around the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix, with Djokovic choosing Portugal as the team he believes will lift the trophy.
The prediction is notable because it places Mexico ahead of several leading European and South American sides in the projected final. Djokovic did not frame it as detailed football analysis, but as a bold call when asked for a tournament winner.
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That distinction matters. This is a public prediction from one of sport's biggest names, not a claim about form, injuries or tournament favourites.
Portugal and Mexico have learned their 2026 World Cup group-stage opponents
Portugal are in Group K with Colombia , Uzbekistan and Congo DR. Roberto Martinez has named Portugal's squad, with Cristiano Ronaldo set to appear at a record sixth World Cup.
FIFA states that Ronaldo has won 226 Portugal caps and scored 143 goals, both records for his country.
Mexico are in Group A with South Africa , Korea Republic and Czechia. Mexico are also one of the three co-hosts of the tournament, along with Canada and the United States.
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For now, Djokovic's prediction gives Portugal and Mexico an extra talking point before their campaigns develop on the pitch.
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