Carlos Alcaraz made history by defeating Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open final to become the youngest tennis player to achieve a career Grand Slam in the Open era, surpassing Rafael Nadal’s record. Despite losing the first set 6-2 at Rod Laver Arena, the world No. 1 rallied to win the next three sets 6-2, 6-3, 7-5, securing his victory in Melbourne.
At 22 years old, Alcaraz has already won each of the other three Grand Slam tournaments twice, but had previously struggled in the Australian Open. After being eliminated in the quarterfinals in the past two years, including a defeat by Djokovic in the previous year, Alcaraz finally reached the final this time and emerged victorious.
In a revengeful showdown lasting over three hours, Alcaraz dethroned the 11-time champion Djokovic, accomplishing the feat at the age of 22 years and 272 days. This achievement makes him the youngest tennis player to reach seven Grand Slam singles titles, surpassing Bjorn Borg’s record.
Nadal, who held the previous record in the Open era, witnessed Alcaraz’s historic win at Rod Laver Arena, where the Spaniard clinched the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup. This victory also places Alcaraz three Grand Slam wins ahead of his rival Jannik Sinner, who was defeated by Djokovic in the semi-finals.
Djokovic, at 38 years old, missed the opportunity to become the all-time leader in Grand Slam singles titles with 25, as he struggled physically in the later sets of the match. Despite a strong start, Djokovic could not force a decider in his 38th Grand Slam final, missing the chance to become the oldest man to win a title in the Open Era.
In a gracious post-match tribute, Djokovic congratulated Alcaraz on his historic achievement and also acknowledged the presence of his longtime rival Nadal at the event. Djokovic expressed his respect for both players and their contributions to the sport.
The Australian Open final showcased an intense battle between the tennis greats, with Alcaraz emerging as the victor and solidifying his place in tennis history.