History-making Carlos Alcaraz denies Novak Djokovic again to complete career Grand Slam with Australian Open triumph

Carlos Alcaraz won his first Australian Open title and became the youngest man, at 22, to complete the career Grand Slam as he beat Novak Djokovic in the final. Djokovic won the first set but Alcaraz roared back to seal a four-set victory and claim the seventh major of his career. Djokovic was aiming to win a record 25th Grand Slam after beating Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals.

Carlos Alcaraz completed an historic career Grand Slam as he won the Australian Open and again denied Novak Djokovic’s own quest for history.

Alcaraz became the youngest man to win all four majors at the age of 22 years and 272 days old as he won a high-quality final 2-6 6-2 6-3 7-5 in Melbourne.

Djokovic, who toppled two-time defending champion Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals, was bidding to win a record 25th major and break a tie with Margaret Court for the most in history.

Australian Open Men's Singles -

'I was thinking about it' - How Nadal's heroics inspired Alcaraz win over Djokovic

01/02/2026 at 19:18

But just as in the 2023 and 2024 Wimbledon finals, Djokovic couldn't get over the line against Alcaraz, who won his first title Down Under.

The victory moves Alcaraz level with Mats Wilander and John McEnroe on seven Grand Slam titles.

"What you have been doing is historic, it is legendary," said Djokovic, 38, about Alcaraz on court after the final.

Djokovic had not lost in 10 previous finals in Melbourne, but couldn't maintain the high level that saw him sweep through the first set.

He also cast doubt on whether he would be returning to the Grand Slam.

"I didn't think I'd be standing at the closing ceremony of a Grand Slam once again," he said.

Highlights: Alcaraz beats Djokovic to complete career Grand Slam

Video credit: TNT Sports

"Who knows what happens tomorrow, never mind the next six or 12 months, but it has been a great ride."

With 22-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal watching on, the first set could not have gone any better for Djokovic as he chased history.

He got the first break to move 3-1 up and then won the set with a love hold followed by another break after a "phenomenal" point.

Djokovic didn’t face a break point on serve in the first set but was under pressure early in the second.

Djokovic held from deuce in his opening service game but was broken next game after several unforced errors.

Alcaraz wins 'point of the tournament' after Djokovic hits shot round the net

Video credit: TNT Sports

Alcaraz won a lengthy rally to lead 3-1 as he started to find his range with his forehand.

The world No. 1 looked much improved and, as Djokovic’s level dropped, he powered his way to the second set.

There was a "bizarre" moment at the end of the set as the roof on Rod Laver Arena was closed slightly with rain forecast.

Alcaraz questioned the decision with both the umpire and tournament referee - but it didn’t derail his momentum.

He won a stunning point after Djokovic hit a shot around the net and then got a thumbs up from his opponent after showing his brilliant defensive skills.

Alcaraz gets thumbs up from Djokovic after brilliant point

Video credit: TNT Sports

Alcaraz pressed for the set in the ninth game and took it with his fifth set point.

Djokovic looked on the brink during an epic 12-minute second game of the fourth set but managed to dig deep and hold.

Djokovic improved from there and had a chance to break in the ninth game but couldn’t take it as he went long with a forehand.

With the tension ramped up, it was Alcaraz who seized his chance.

Alcaraz makes 'outstanding' passing shot against Djokovic

Video credit: TNT Sports

He won a 24-shot rally and earned two match point at 15-40 as Djokovic’s forehand faltered at a key moment.

Alcaraz took his opportunity as he made history in Melbourne, falling to the floor in celebration and then hugging Djokovic after he came around the net.

The next Grand Slam is the 2026 French Open, which will be live on TNT Sports and discovery+, and starts on May 24.

Australian Open Men's Singles -

'It's been a great ride' - Djokovic ponders 'what-if scenarios' after defeat in final

01/02/2026 at 15:23

Australian Open Men's Singles -

'He doesn't look thrilled'- Alcaraz questions 'bizarre' decision in Australian Open final

01/02/2026 at 14:19