Carlos Alcaraz has etched his name into tennis history, capturing his first Australian Open title and becoming the youngest male to complete the Career Grand Slam. At 22 years and 8 months, the Spaniard surpassed Don Budge, who achieved the feat in 1938 at 22 years and 11 months.
This triumph completes a remarkable journey across all surfaces. Alcaraz had previously won the US Open at 19, Wimbledon at 20, and Roland Garros at 21, including two titles in Paris. The Australian Open crown now cements his place among the sport’s all-time greats.
For Alcaraz, Melbourne had long been a challenging stage. He had only reached the quarterfinals in previous appearances, falling to Alexander Zverev in 2024 and Novak Djokovic in 2025. This year, however, he overcame every obstacle. After a dominant quarterfinal win over Alex de Minaur, he faced Zverev again in a marathon semi-final. Alcaraz emerged victorious in a grueling five-set match that lasted five hours and 27 minutes, battling cramps and overturning a 5-3 deficit in the final set.
The final against Novak Djokovic, a ten-time Australian Open champion, was a test of skill and composure. Djokovic claimed the first set 6-2, but Alcaraz adapted quickly, reducing unforced errors and breaking Djokovic twice in both the second and third sets to take a two-sets-to-one lead.
The fourth set was a tense battle, with Alcaraz saving a critical break point at 4-all. Ultimately, a forehand error from Djokovic on his serve at 5-6 handed Alcaraz the match, completing a historic victory.
Afterward, Djokovic, now a 24-time Grand Slam winner, personally congratulated the young Spaniard, highlighting the mutual respect between two of tennis’s elite competitors.
Carlos Alcaraz’s performance in Melbourne not only earned him a Grand Slam title but also confirmed his status as one of the most talented and determined players in the history of the sport.
