Carlos Alcaraz won his first Australian Open title on Sunday, defeating Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 in the final to complete a career Grand Slam at age 22. This marks him as the youngest man in history to achieve the feat, surpassing Don Budge's record from 1938. The triumph adds to Alcaraz's growing legacy, highlighted by record crowds and challenging heat conditions at Melbourne Park.
Carlos Alcaraz etched his name further into tennis history by capturing the 2026 Australian Open men's singles title, becoming the ninth man to complete a career Grand Slam and the youngest ever at 22 years and eight months. In a dramatic final, the Spaniard rallied from a set down to beat 10-time champion Novak Djokovic, securing his seventh major title overall. Alcaraz's path included straight-set wins over his first five opponents, a five-set semifinal epic against Alexander Zverev (6-4, 7-6(5), 6-7(3), 6-7(4), 7-5), and this comeback victory, making him 7-1 in Grand Slam finals.
The tournament broke attendance records with over 1.3 million spectators, transforming into a multi-dimensional festival featuring concerts, food activations, and heat-management measures amid soaring temperatures that suspended play at times. Alcaraz praised the organizers post-match: “Thanks to everyone who made this tournament possible. It’s a great tournament for the players... I just feel the love of the people.” The event highlighted climate challenges for outdoor sports, with flexible scheduling and closed roofs becoming essential.
At 22, Alcaraz surpassed Rafael Nadal's six majors at the same age and now leads the ATP rankings with a 3,350-point advantage, holding 13,650 points. Former Federer coach Ivan Ljubicic noted the Big Three's dominance has eased Alcaraz's path mentally, setting a higher bar of 25 Slams. However, off-court drama emerged as ex-coach Juan Carlos Ferrero unfollowed Alcaraz on social media after their December split, with Alcaraz omitting thanks to him in victory speeches—a move criticized by Toni Nadal.
Alcaraz's win continues the 'Sincaraz' streak, with he and Jannik Sinner claiming the last nine majors. He eyes a double career Slam soon and a calendar Grand Slam, stating pre-tournament: “My main goal is always to complete the career grand slam and the calendar grand slam.” This victory cements his status as tennis's rising force amid evolving event formats and environmental pressures.
