22 years old, 272 days, Carlos Alcaraz made history on Sunday as he defeated Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 at the Australian Open, becoming the youngest ever male player to complete the career grand slam.
World number one broke Don Budge’s 1938 record by winning all four Grand Slam titles faster than anyone before. He now has seven titles in total, after winning his first Australian Open and also taking doubles titles at the French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open.
Addressing the media after the match, Alcaraz dedicated this to his team who he believes he would not have achieved without them. “Nobody knows how hard I’ve worked to get this trophy.
“I chased this moment so much. I appreciate it was a rollercoaster emotionally, and my team and I went through stuff but did the right work. This trophy is yours as well.
“I can’t wait to come back here next year.”
It was cold and windy in Melbourne, so the final started with the roof partly closed at Rod Laver Arena. Before the third set, rain was expected, so the roof was closed more. Alcaraz was unhappy and spoke to the referee.
When the weather no longer mattered, Alcaraz played an amazing shot. He hit a backhand winner around the net post. He then ran to return a forehand from the back of the court and broke Djokovic’s serve again. This put him one set away from history.
Djokovic, now under pressure, called the trainer before the fourth set. He fought hard and saved six break points in a very long service game to stay in the match. He said he got his energy back.
Djokovic served better when he needed to. With Alcaraz leading 4–3 and 0–30, Djokovic held his serve. He raised the level of the match and got a break point, which excited the crowd. But Alcaraz stayed calm, and Djokovic missed a return on Alcaraz’s second serve.
Alcaraz held his serve to lead 6–5. He then won a long rally of 24 shots, hitting some of his best shots. Djokovic tried to reach a tiebreak, but he made two mistakes in a row. That gave Alcaraz match points. One more forehand mistake from Djokovic ended the match, and Alcaraz was crowned Australian Open champion.
Novak, who was chasing his 25th grand slam had some few words for the young man as he plans to play against him for the next 10 years.
“Congratulations Carlos, an amazing tournament and an amazing couple of weeks. What you’ve been doing, the best word to describe it is ‘historic’.
“It’s legendary, and I wish you the best of luck for the rest of your career.
“You are young like me and I’m sure we’ll be seeing each other many times over the next 10 years…NOT!
“I had a winning speech prepared and a losing speech. But I want to keep it short, this is Carlos’ moment.”
