Carlos Alcaraz achieved one of the biggest goals he had for 2026, and it is only February 1.
Alcaraz, 22, has not been shy about saying he wanted to win the Australian Open, the only Grand Slam missing from his already loaded trophy case.
Novak Djokovic was standing in his way, chasing his own history, going for his mind blowing and record breaking 25th Grand Slam win after a grueling five set semifinal against Jannik Sinner.
It was a four set duel between two titans of the sport.
Djokovic won the first set and looked like the player who sent two-time Jannik Sinner packing in a thrilling semifinal on Friday.
Alcaraz rebounded and won the next three sets. There were tremendous rallies and great tremendous shotmaking on display.
In a rare change of events for Alcaraz, the Serbian fanbase paid big money (reportedly $5,500 per ticket on the aftermarket) to cheer on the greatest athlete ever from their country.
Cheers of NO-VAK emanated from the packed Rod Laver Arena often.
A Career Grand Slam and seven Majors at 22yo.
Completed weeks after splitting with his longtime coach.
Carlos Alcaraz is one of a kind. pic.twitter.com/pXE167PbSx
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) February 1, 2026
Alcaraz wins and is the youngest man to win the career Grand Slam.
Novak Djokovic Calls Carlos Alcaraz “A Legend” In Trophy Presentation
Djokovic called Alcaraz “a legend.”
Legend calling the next generation a legend is striking.
Novak Djokovic genuinely likes Carlos Alcaraz.
Some great images from this ceremony. pic.twitter.com/f1d6w7g63w
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) February 1, 2026
Djokovic joked that he would see Carlos a lot more in the next ten years since they are both young.
Novak Djokovic called out Rafael Nadal who was in the stands watching the final. He admitted it was odd to see Rafa in the stands and admitted he was outnumbered by Spanish legends.
"God knows what happens tomorrow, let alone in 6 months or 12 months. It has been a great ride. I love you guys."
Novak Djokovic after what could be his last time at the Australian Open ❤️ pic.twitter.com/XktOBYlKPD
— ESPN (@espn) February 1, 2026
He concluded by saying it has been a “great ride,” admitting “God knows what happens tomorrow, in six months, or twelve months.”
Carlos Alcaraz Beams With Rafael Nadal Looking On
Alcaraz calls Djokovic “inspiring” for the hard work and effort over the years. He called it an “honor” to watch and play with him.
He thanked his team for the work and doing the right things to get ready for this tournament. He stopped short of acknowledging former coach Juan Carlos Ferrero.
Alcaraz acknowledged Nadal and mentioned it was a “privilege” for him to be there to watch.
