Alcaraz beats Djokovic to win Australian Open, completes career Grand Slam at 22
Carlos Alcaraz produced a defining performance in Melbourne on Sunday, defeating Novak Djokovic in four sets to win the 2026 Australian Open and become the youngest men’s player in history to complete a career Grand Slam.
The world number one recovered from a slow start to beat Djokovic 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 at Rod Laver Arena, denying the Serbian a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title while sealing his own place among tennis’ all-time greats.
Djokovic strikes first, Alcaraz responds
Djokovic began the final with authority, dominating the opening set 6-2 as he chased an unprecedented milestone. His experience and precision put early pressure on the Spaniard, who struggled to find rhythm in the opening exchanges.
That momentum shifted sharply in the second set. Alcaraz raised the intensity, attacking the baseline and forcing Djokovic into longer rallies. The change paid off as the Spaniard took the set 6-2, wresting control of the match.
Momentum swings decisively
With confidence growing, Alcaraz continued to dictate play in the third set. His speed, shot variety, and composure under pressure unsettled Djokovic, who was unable to match the younger player’s physicality as Alcaraz closed out the set 6-3.
The fourth set proved the most dramatic. Both players held serve in a tense, high-quality contest that kept the Melbourne crowd on edge. At 5-5, Alcaraz found another gear, breaking Djokovic at the crucial moment before serving out the championship to seal victory.
History made in Melbourne
The triumph completes Alcaraz’s career Grand Slam, making him the youngest man to win all four major singles titles at 22 years and 258 days. The previous record was held by Rafael Nadal, who achieved the feat at 24 years and 88 days.
Alcaraz now owns seven Grand Slam titles and becomes only the sixth men’s player in the Open Era to complete a career Grand Slam, joining an elite group that includes Djokovic himself and Roger Federer.
- Related Article: Carlos Alcaraz outlasts Alexander Zverev in 5.5-hour marathon to reach maiden Australian Open Final
For Djokovic, the loss ends another bid for a historic 25th major title, though his run to the final reaffirmed his enduring competitiveness at the top of the sport.
For Alcaraz, the victory cements his position as the dominant force of his generation, combining youth, consistency, and big-match mentality on the sport’s biggest stages.
SportsLigue