In a stunning display of resilience and power, Spanish phenom Carlos Alcaraz captured his maiden Australian Open title on Sunday, dethroning Novak Djokovic in a four-set thriller (2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5) on Rod Laver Arena. The victory propels the 22-year-old into the history books as the youngest male player in the Open Era to achieve a career Grand Slam, adding the Australian trophy to his two Wimbledon, French Open, and US Open titles.
The final represented a dramatic reversal of fortunes after a dominant opening set from the 38-year-old Serbian legend. Djokovic, seeking an unprecedented 25th major singles title and his 11th Australian Open crown, started in imperious form, claiming the first set in just 33 minutes. However, Alcaraz dramatically elevated his game, increasing his tempo and unleashing a barrage of powerful groundstrokes to seize control of the match.
The contest featured electrifying rallies that brought the Melbourne crowd to its feet, particularly during a pivotal third set. Despite a valiant effort from Djokovic to save multiple break points in a grueling 11-minute service game in the fourth set, Alcaraz’s relentless pressure proved insurmountable. The Spaniard ultimately broke Djokovic’s serve as he attempted to stay in the match, clinching the championship and cementing his status as the undisputed world number one.
This defeat marks Djokovic’s first loss in an Australian Open final, ending a perfect 10-0 record in Melbourne title matches. The result also reshuffles the ATP rankings, with Alcaraz maintaining the top position, Jannik Sinner remaining at number two, and Djokovic moving up to third place ahead of Alexander Zverev.