Carlos Alcaraz defeated Novak Djokovic in four sets to win his maiden Australian Open title on Sunday, becoming the youngest man in the Open Era to complete a career Grand Slam at age 22. The victory marks his seventh major overall, breaking a record previously held by Rafael Nadal. In post-match reflections, Alcaraz dismissed suggestions that he has reached the level of the Big Three.
Carlos Alcaraz, the world No. 1, secured a straight-sets victory over Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open final at Rod Laver Arena, claiming his first title at the Melbourne major and his seventh Grand Slam overall. At 22 years old, Alcaraz became the sixth man in the Open Era to achieve a career Grand Slam, surpassing countryman Rafael Nadal's previous record as the youngest to do so. The 16-year age gap between the finalists—Djokovic nearing 39—highlighted the generational clash, with Alcaraz now holding two titles each at the US Open (2022, 2025), Wimbledon (2023, 2024), and French Open (2024, 2025), plus this Australian Open win.
In an interview with Spanish newspaper Marca, Alcaraz addressed queries about emulating Djokovic's longevity. "I’m not thinking about that," he said. "I hope I can reach my age challenging a new generation of tennis players and playing in Grand Slam finals." He firmly rejected claims of matching the Big Three—Djokovic (24 majors), Nadal (22), and Roger Federer (20)—stating, "No, no, I’m not even close. I’ll only be able to say I’m at the same level as them if I have a 20 or 22-year career and win the top titles season after season."
Alcaraz emphasized the mental demands of the tournament: "The two weeks in Melbourne were very intense, full of emotions, and mentally demanding." He plans to rest before continuing his season, aiming to defend his French Open title without added pressure. Djokovic, the lone active member of the Big Three, praised Alcaraz's potential: "Everything is possible in his case, no question about it."
Experts like Pat Cash and Greg Rusedski see Alcaraz on track for many more majors, provided he maintains health and form. Nadal, watching from the stands, welcomed any future record-breakers. The win solidifies Alcaraz's edge over rival Jannik Sinner in Grand Slam finals.
