Carlos Alcaraz etched his name into tennis immortality on February 1, 2026, defeating Novak Djokovic in a thrilling Australian Open final to become the youngest player in history to complete a career Grand Slam. The 22-year-old Spaniard prevailed 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 in a match that lasted three hours and two minutes on Rod Laver Arena, claiming his first Australian Open title and seventh major championship overall.

The victory shattered an 88-year-old record previously held by American legend Don Budge, who completed his career Grand Slam in 1938 just days before his 23rd birthday. Alcaraz now stands as just the ninth man in tennis history to collect all four major trophies, joining an elite club that includes Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and the man he defeated in the final, Djokovic himself.

The match showcased the dramatic resilience that has become Alcarazs trademark. Djokovic, the 10-time Australian Open champion, dominated the opening set with surgical precision, breaking the young Spaniards serve twice to claim a 6-2 advantage. The Serbian legend appeared to be on course for an 11th Melbourne crown, using his legendary court coverage and tactical brilliance to neutralize Alcarazs power game.

However, Alcaraz responded with the composure of a seasoned champion. He found his rhythm in the second set, unleashing his devastating forehand and displaying the all-court versatility that has made him the worlds number one player. The Spaniard won the second set 6-2, then maintained his momentum to take the third 6-3, completely turning the tide of the contest.

The fourth set proved to be the most dramatic of all. Both players traded blows in an extended battle, with neither willing to yield. A spectacular 24-stroke rally highlighted the extraordinary quality on display, with Alcaraz ultimately prevailing 7-5 to seal his historic triumph.

Nobody knows how hard Ive been working to get this trophy. I just chased this moment so much, Alcaraz said during the trophy ceremony, visibly emotional after achieving his lifelong dream. The Melbourne crowd, which had witnessed one of the great finals in Australian Open history, gave both players a standing ovation.

Djokovic, gracious in defeat despite missing out on an 11th Australian Open title, praised his young rival. Congratulations Carlos, an amazing tournament. What youve been doing is historic, legendary, the Serbian said. The loss marked Djokovics first defeat in 11 Australian Open finals and his third loss to Alcaraz in a Grand Slam final.

The victory extends a remarkable streak that has seen Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner claim the last nine Grand Slam mens singles titles between them. At just 22, Alcaraz has now equaled Bjorn Borgs tally of seven majors, the most by any player under 23 in the Open Era.

As Alcaraz posed for champions photographs with the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup against the Melbourne skyline, the tennis world acknowledged they were witnessing the dawn of a new era. With his complete game, mental fortitude, and now a full set of Grand Slam trophies, Carlos Alcaraz has firmly established himself as the face of modern tennis.