MELBOURNE (SNP Report): Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz delivered a sensational performance to defeat Novak Djokovic and capture his maiden Australian Open title, completing a historic career Grand Slam and denying the Serbian legend a record 25th major championship.
The 22-year-old Spaniard overcame a slow start to defeat the 38-year-old Djokovic 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 in a high-quality final at Rod Laver Arena on Sunday. The victory secured Alcaraz his seventh Grand Slam title and reinforced his position as the undisputed world number one. With the triumph, Alcaraz became the youngest player in the Open era to win all four major titles, adding the Australian Open crown to his two titles each at Wimbledon, the French Open, and the US Open. He surpassed Spanish great Rafael Nadal, who was present in the crowd, achieving the milestone two years earlier than his legendary compatriot.
The win also placed Alcaraz alongside John McEnroe and Mats Wilander on seven Grand Slam titles, while moving him closer to Andre Agassi, Jimmy Connors, and Ivan Lendl, who each won eight majors. For Djokovic, the defeat marked his first loss in an Australian Open final, having previously won all 10 of his title matches in Melbourne. The Serbian star was aiming to become the oldest men’s Grand Slam singles champion and surpass Margaret Court’s record of 24 major titles.
Djokovic started strongly, dominating the opening set with aggressive returns and precise shot-making. However, Alcaraz quickly shifted momentum, increasing his intensity and controlling rallies with powerful baseline play and tactical variety. Despite battling fatigue after gruelling five-set semi-final victories, Alcaraz against Alexander Zverev and Djokovic against Jannik Sinner, both players displayed exceptional endurance and skill.
Alcaraz gradually wore down his opponent, breaking Djokovic’s resistance late in the fourth set to seal the title. The victory ensures Alcaraz maintains his top ranking, with Jannik Sinner holding second place and Djokovic moving to third in the world standings, further signalling the rise of tennis’s new generation.
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