Carlos Alcaraz created history on Sunday by winning his first Australian Open title. The 22-year-old Spaniard defeated Novak Djokovic in the men’s singles final at Rod Laver Arena. Alcaraz lost the opening set but made a strong comeback to win the match 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5.

The defeat means Djokovic must wait longer to claim his record-extending 25th Grand Slam title. Despite Djokovic’s dominance in Melbourne, with 10 Australian Open titles, Alcaraz lived up to his status as the favourite.

With this victory, Alcaraz secured his seventh Grand Slam title. Earlier, he had won two French Open titles, two Wimbledon titles, and two US Open titles.

Youngest Player to Complete Career Grand Slam

Alcaraz achieved another major milestone with this win. He became the youngest male player to complete a career Grand Slam. This means he has now won at least one singles title at all four Grand Slams.

He reached the landmark at the age of 22 years and 258 days, setting a new benchmark in men’s tennis.

Dominant Run Throughout the Tournament

Alcaraz showed remarkable consistency during the Australian Open 2026. He dropped only three sets in the entire tournament. Until the semi-final, he had not lost a single set.

In the semi-final against Alexander Zverev, Alcaraz struggled with cramps midway through the third set. This affected his movement and caused him to lose two sets. Still, he fought through the pain and booked his place in the final.

Djokovic Takes Control Early

Djokovic started the final strongly. He dominated the first set by controlling the rallies and limiting Alcaraz’s movement. The Serbian denied Alcaraz time and space, forcing errors from the Spaniard.

Djokovic served with great accuracy and won the first set 6-2 quickly. Alcaraz looked uncomfortable and struggled to find answers early in the match.

Alcaraz Fights Back in Style

Carlos Alcaraz responded immediately in the second set. He raised his intensity and began attacking from the baseline. His forehands and backhands flowed freely, putting Djokovic under pressure.

The Spaniard won the second set 6-2, turning the match around. Djokovic’s energy levels dipped, which surprised both the crowd and viewers watching worldwide.

Momentum Shifts in the Third Set

The third set opened with a long 10-point rally. Djokovic lost the point after hitting a backhand into the net. That moment shifted momentum firmly in Alcaraz’s favour.

Alcaraz pushed ahead to take a 5-3 lead. He maintained control and closed the set confidently, moving one step closer to the title.

Fourth Set Seals Historic Victory

Djokovic made one final push in the fourth set. He repeatedly broke Alcaraz’s serve and tried to force a comeback. However, the challenge proved too difficult.

Alcaraz stayed calm under pressure and won the set 7-5. With that, he clinched his maiden Australian Open title, adding another historic chapter to his young career.

A New Era in Men’s Tennis

Alcaraz’s triumph not only denied Djokovic another record but also confirmed the rise of a new generation. His performance in Melbourne highlighted his mental strength, athleticism, and ability to recover from setbacks.

At just 22, Alcaraz has already achieved what many players dream of, and his journey appears far from over.