Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz produced a performance of rare composure and maturity to defeat Novak Djokovic in the men’s singles final of the Australian Openwinning 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 and claiming his first Melbourne crown.

Slow start, remarkable comeback

Playing his maiden Australian Open final, the 22-year-old Spaniard endured a nervy opening, struggling to find rhythm as Djokovic dominated the first set with trademark precision. Unlike earlier phases of his career, Alcaraz resisted the temptation to overhit, instead steadily working his way into the contest with patience and intelligent shot selection.

From the second set onwards, the momentum shifted decisively. Alcaraz absorbed Djokovic’s aggression, used the full width of the court, and forced the 38-year-old into longer rallies. His defensive resilience and improved serving under pressure proved crucial as he gradually took control of the match.

A landmark achievement

With the victory, Alcaraz became the youngest man in tennis history to complete a career Grand Slam, winning all four major titles by the age of 22 — a record last achieved by Don Budge in 1938. Only eight men in history have managed the feat, placing Alcaraz firmly among the sport’s elite.

The win also denied Djokovic a potential 25th Grand Slam singles title and the chance to become the oldest major champion in the Open Era. Despite visible fatigue in the latter stages, Djokovic fought valiantly, but Alcaraz held his nerve in the decisive moments of the fourth set to seal a monumental triumph.

New era in men’s tennis

The Melbourne title comes just weeks after Alcaraz’s high-profile coaching change, silencing doubts and underlining his inner belief. By securing his seventh Grand Slam title, he has strengthened his claim as one of the greatest young players the sport has seen.

For tennis fans worldwide, the final signalled more than a championship win — it marked the arrival of a defining force ready to shape the game’s future.