Carlos Alcaraz has defeated Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open final to seal a place in tennis history, completing a record-breaking Career Grand Slam and denying the Serbian great an unprecedented 25th major singles title.
The Spanish world number one triumphed in four sets, overcoming Djokovic’s early momentum to claim the only Grand Slam title missing from his collection. In doing so, Alcaraz became the youngest men’s player to win all four majors, achieving the feat at 22 years and 272 days.
His maiden triumph in Melbourne eclipses a long-standing milestone set by Don Budge, who completed his Grand Slam at the 1938 French Open just two days before turning 23.
In the Open era, the previous youngest achiever was Rafael Nadal, who was 24 years and 88 days old when he lifted the US Open trophy in 2010 to secure his set of four.
Australian Open Final: Carlos Alcaraz Overcomes Novak Djokovic in Four Sets
Alcaraz now becomes just the sixth man since 1968 to complete a Career Grand Slam, joining an elite group that includes Djokovic himself and fellow modern-era icon Roger Federer.
The 10-time Australian Open champion started assertively, taking the opening set 6-2. However, Alcaraz raised his intensity and rhythm in the second and third sets, breaking Djokovic repeatedly to claim them 6-2 and 6-3.
The fourth set proved fiercely competitive, with both players holding serve until 6-5, when Alcaraz produced a decisive break to close out the match and secure one of the biggest wins of his career.
Seventh Grand Slam Title and Praise from a Tennis Legend
The victory marks Alcaraz’s seventh Grand Slam title from just 20 major appearances, adding to the two trophies he has already won at each of the other three majors.
Djokovic was gracious in defeat and paid tribute to his opponent during the on-court ceremony, saying: “Congratulations Carlos, an amazing tournament and an amazing couple of weeks. What you’ve been doing, the best word to describe it is: historic.
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“It’s legendary, and I wish you the best of luck for the rest of your career. You are young like me, and I’m sure we’ll be seeing each other many times over the next 10 years… not!”
The Serbian also reflected on his own future, adding: “I must be honest and say I did not think I would be standing at the closing ceremony of a Grand Slam again.
“God knows what happens tomorrow, but it’s been a great ride. I love you all.”
Mutual Respect After a Gruelling Tournament
Alcaraz returned the compliments, praising Djokovic’s longevity and influence on the sport:
“You’re talking about how I’m doing amazing things, but what you’re doing is inspiring. Not only for tennis players, but athletes around the world. Putting the right hard work in every day.
“I enjoy watching you play so much. It’s been an honour to share the locker room with you and share the court with you. Thank you.”
Reflecting on his breakthrough moment in Melbourne, Alcaraz added:
“Nobody knows how hard I’ve worked to get this trophy.
“I chased this moment so much. I appreciate it was a rollercoaster emotionally, and my team and I went through stuff but did the right work.”
Tough Semi-Finals Set the Stage for a Classic Final
Both finalists arrived at Sunday’s showdown after demanding semi-final battles on Friday night.
Alcaraz edged past third seed Alexander Zverev in a gripping five-set encounter, while Djokovic delivered a four-hour display of vintage brilliance against Jannik Sinner, who had claimed the previous two Australian Open titles.
The final lived up to expectations, marking a generational moment in men’s tennis as Alcaraz firmly established himself among the sport’s all-time greats.
