Carlos Alcaraz made history by defeating Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open final, becoming the youngest tennis player in the Open era to achieve a career Grand Slam, surpassing Rafael Nadal’s record. Despite losing the first set 6-2 at Rod Laver Arena, Alcaraz rallied to win the next three sets 6-2, 6-3, 7-5, securing his first victory in Melbourne.

At 22 years old, Alcaraz has previously won each of the other three Grand Slam tournaments twice but had not been successful in Australia until now. After exiting in the quarter-finals in the past two years, including a defeat to Djokovic last year, he reached his first final this time and managed to avenge his loss to the 11-time champion in a match lasting just over three hours.

Alcaraz achieved this milestone at the age of 22 years and 272 days, breaking the record set by Don Budge in 1938 at 22 years and 363 days, making him the youngest player in tennis history to accomplish this feat. His victory also surpasses Nadal’s age record in 2010 and Rod Laver’s mark in 1962.

With this win, Alcaraz now holds seven Grand Slam singles titles, setting a new record by surpassing Bjorn Borg. Additionally, he is now three titles ahead of his rival Jannik Sinner, whom Djokovic defeated in the semi-finals.

Djokovic, who was aiming to become the all-time leader in Grand Slam singles titles with 25 and also the oldest man to win a title in the Open Era, fell short in the final. Despite a strong start and being two sets away from the record, Djokovic struggled physically in the subsequent sets and could not force a decider in his 38th Grand Slam final.

After the match, Djokovic congratulated Alcaraz on his historic achievement and acknowledged the presence of Nadal, expressing his respect and gratitude towards his long-time rival. Both legends were present at the event, with Margaret Court also in attendance, remaining tied with Djokovic on 24 Grand Slam victories.