Carlos Alcaraz stunned Novak Djokovic to claim the Australian Open crown, becoming the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam. At just 22, the Spaniard now owns seven majors across all four Slams. However, even in defeat, Djokovic acknowledged the rise of a generational force as Alcaraz marches toward tennis immortality.

At the post-match trophy ceremony, Novak Djokovic opened his runner-up speech by praising Carlos Alcaraz. He said, “Congratulations, Carlos. Amazing tournament, amazing couple of weeks, to your coach, to your family, to your team.” 

He then highlighted the scale of Alcaraz’s achievement. Djokovic added, “What you have been doing, I think the best words to describe it is historic, legendary. So Congratulations and I wish you the best of luck for the rest of your career.” His words underlined the moment’s importance.

Later, the 38-year-old ended on a lighter note. He joked, “I mean, you are so young, you’ve got a lot of time like myself. I’m sure we will see each other many more times next ten years.”

Carlos Alcaraz’s Australian Open triumph is indeed legendary. For the first 45 minutes of his maiden final, he looked almost invisible. The occasion seemed to weigh heavily on him.

He started nervously on one of the biggest stages of his career. Novak Djokovic controlled the early exchanges. The Serbian legend played with authority and intent from the opening point.

Djokovic looked determined to dictate the match. His experience and precision smothered Alcaraz early. The pressure was relentless.

A younger Alcaraz might have panicked at that point. In the past, he sometimes overhit when chasing momentum. That was seen during their Olympic battle in Paris 18 months ago.

This time, he stayed calm. He trusted his game and worked his way back slowly. Point by point, he found his rhythm. Once settled, Alcaraz began to take control. His confidence grew with every rally. The match turned in his favor.

He produced one of the great modern tennis comebacks. Alcaraz recovered from a set down to win 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5. 

Even at the post-match press conference, Novak Djokovic was asked about his rivalry with Carlos Alcaraz. He spoke about what future generations might miss. The Serbian star responded calmly and honestly.

Djokovic said, “I don’t know what I can say to them, but I can say that for me it’s always a pleasure to face him.” His words reflected the respect he holds for Alcaraz as a competitor.

“Because he definitely is one of the best players I ever faced in my career. He makes you play your best tennis in order to beat him. So it’s what I’ve done, you know, for like a set and a half, but then, things changed, and he deserves to win,” he added.

Tennis has seen many great young champions. Bjorn Borg and Rafael Nadal belong to that elite list. Nadal watched from the front row at Rod Laver Arena.

Alcaraz now makes a powerful case of his own. At just 22, he became the youngest man ever to complete a career Grand Slam. Don Budge had held that record since 1938.

Only eight men in history have won all four Grand Slams. Alcaraz is now one of them. The achievement carries even more meaning. Just six weeks earlier, he split with longtime coach Juan Carlos Ferrero. Samuel López was promoted to head coach. Many questioned the decision.

Alcaraz answered the doubts in perfect fashion. He won the major he wanted most. In doing so, he became the youngest man to win seven Grand Slam titles.

His rise has been rapid. He won his first major at the 2022 US Open and became the youngest world No. 1. Wimbledon followed in 2023 and 2024, and Roland Garros in 2024 and 2025.

And as Djokovic shared his respect for the rising star, Alcaraz also reflected on Djokovic’s greatness. Even at 38, the Serbian continues to set extraordinary standards.

Carlos Alcaraz expresses gratitude and respect toward Novak Djokovic

After losing the opening set 6–2, Carlos Alcaraz raised his level quickly. He attacked early and played with more confidence. He won the second set just as fast, also by a 6–2 scoreline.

From that moment, the match began to swing in one direction. Alcaraz’s speed and athleticism became decisive. Novak Djokovic, unusually, looked more vulnerable as rallies grew longer.

Alcaraz controlled the tempo from the baseline. He moved Djokovic corner to corner and stayed calm in key moments. His energy never dropped as the match progressed.

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However, after the match, Alcaraz used his on-court interview to praise Djokovic. He turned directly toward the Serbian champion before speaking.

“I want to talk about Novak; he deserves an ovation for sure. You talk about how I’m doing amazing things, but what you’re doing is inspiring, not just for tennis players, but for athletes around the world and for me as well,” Carlos added.

He then continued with more heartfelt words. He highlighted Djokovic’s dedication and professionalism over the years.

“You put in hard work every day with your team, and I enjoy watching you play, and it’s been an honor sharing the locker room and the court with you. Thank you for what you’re doing because it’s really inspiring to me.”

Now, questions remain about whether this was Novak’s best chance to win a 25th Grand Slam in Australia. Still, his physical strength and endurance remain remarkable. His longevity continues to inspire the tennis world.