Carlos Alcaraz wins Australian Open, achieving a career Grand Slam
Carlos Alcaraz has become the youngest male player in tennis history to achieve the career Grand Slam, with the world No 1 beating Novak Djokovic in four sets to win the Australian Open title on Sunday, reports BritPanorama.
The 22-year-old, who secured his first major title less than four years ago at the US Open, has now eclipsed a record previously held by American tennis legend Don Budge. Budge was just 22 years and 363 days old when he overcame Roderich Menzel to win the French Open in 1938. Alcaraz, at 22 years and 272 days, has now positioned himself ahead of Budge in the annals of the sport.
Sunday’s final had all the ingredients for a thrilling encounter. Alcaraz had dramatically defeated Alexander Zverev in the semi-finals on Friday, overcoming significant cramp issues. On the other side, Djokovic, 38, had advanced past defending champion Jannik Sinner, marking an end to the Italian’s unbeaten run at this competition since 2023.
As the match began, Djokovic showcased his experience and prowess, breaking Alcaraz’s serve in the first game of the match and claiming the first set decisively. However, the world No 1 battled back vigorously in the second set, breaking Djokovic early on his way to a 6-2 win, levelling the match. Tension rose during the break before the third set as Alcaraz expressed frustration over a partially closed roof, a complaint that briefly delayed the match.
Throughout the match, both players exhibited remarkable shot-making skills, with Alcaraz pulling off a stunning tweener, though Djokovic managed to take that point. As the match progressed, Djokovic’s serve faced increasing pressure, and Alcaraz capitalised on a crucial break at a pivotal moment, establishing control of the match.
Ultimately, Alcaraz secured his first Australian Open title with one final break at 6-5. Emotionally overwhelmed, he collapsed to the court following his victory, marking his seventh Grand Slam title. He is widely expected to claim many more in the future, signalling his ongoing ascent in the sport.
This final not only underscored Alcaraz’s burgeoning legacy but also highlighted the dynamic shift within men’s tennis, where emerging talent faces off against seasoned champions. How fitting that in sport, champions rise, yet echoes of past legends persist, competing against the narrative of progression.
