KEY POINTS
- Carlos Alcaraz defeated Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 to claim his first title in Melbourne.
- The 22-year-old Spaniard is now the youngest man ever to complete the prestigious career Grand Slam.
- Novak Djokovic’s quest for a record-breaking 25th major title was halted by Alcaraz’s relentless physical intensity.
Carlos Alcaraz has rewritten the history books by winning his maiden Australian Open title on Sunday. In a high-stakes final at Rod Laver Arena, the world number one overcame a difficult start to defeat ten-time champion Novak Djokovic. This victory marks a monumental achievement for the young Spaniard. At just 22 years old, Alcaraz has become the youngest male player to complete a career Grand Slam.
The match began with Djokovic showcasing his legendary precision and dominance. The 38-year-old veteran broke Alcaraz early, seizing the opening set with clinical efficiency. For the first 45 minutes, Djokovic appeared poised to extend his perfect record in Melbourne finals. However, the momentum shifted dramatically as Alcaraz began to find his rhythm and increase his physical pressure.
Alcaraz responded in the second set by upping his defensive intensity and court coverage. He broke Djokovic’s serve early and never looked back, leveling the match with a display of raw power. The Spaniard’s ability to turn defense into attack left the veteran searching for answers. By the third set, Alcaraz took full control, utilizing wide angles to keep his opponent on the run.
Despite physical fatigue, Djokovic mounted a spectacular last stand in the fourth set. The Serbian icon saved multiple break points and pushed the younger star to his absolute limit. A critical break point at 4-4 offered Djokovic a chance to force a deciding set. Alcaraz remained composed, holding his serve and eventually breaking Djokovic in the final game to seal the win.
This triumph marks Alcaraz’s seventh Grand Slam title in only 20 attempts. By winning in Melbourne, he adds the final missing piece to his major trophy collection. He joins an elite group of men to have won all four Grand Slam tournaments in the Open Era. The achievement is even more significant as he surpassed records previously held by Don Budge and Rafael Nadal.
Djokovic praised his opponent after the match, describing Alcaraz as a “legend” at only 22. The defeat marks the first time Djokovic has lost an Australian Open final after ten previous victories. While he remains tied with Margaret Court at 24 major titles, his performance confirmed he remains a formidable force. For Alcaraz, the win solidifies his position at the pinnacle of men’s tennis.
