By Dwayne Ferreira
In a match that will be remembered as the definitive passing of the torch, Carlos Alcaraz defeated Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 to claim his first Australian Open title. With this victory, the 22 year old Spaniard becomes the youngest man in history to complete a Career Grand Slam, achieving the feat two years earlier than his idol, Rafael Nadal, who watched on from the stands of Rod Laver Arena.
The final began as a masterclass in Serbian dominance. Djokovic, seeking an unprecedented 25th Major, looked untouchable in a thirty three minute opening set, breaking Alcaraz twice to take it 6-2. For a moment, the ten time champion appeared destined to maintain his perfect record in Melbourne finals.
However, the second set saw a dramatic recalibration. Alcaraz, who had looked sluggish following his record breaking semi-final marathon against Alexander Zverev, found his “Tiger” eyes. He began punishing Djokovic’s second serve and utilizing his trademark drop shots to neutralize the Serb’s baseline rhythm. By the time Alcaraz sealed the second set 6-2, the momentum had shifted irrevocably.
The fourth set was a microcosm of their entire rivalry, a brutal physical and mental chess match. Djokovic putting everyhing on the line, managed to saving a staggering six break points in a second game that lasted over twelve minutes. Despite the 38 year old’s defiance, Alcaraz remained relentless.
Serving at 5-6 to stay in the match, Djokovic finally faltered. A lung-busting twemty four shot rally ended with a weary forehand into the net, handing Alcaraz three championship points. The Spaniard needed only one, collapsing to the blue hard court in disbelief as he secured his seventh Grand Slam title.
As Alcaraz signed the camera lens with “Job finished. 4/4 Complete,” the gravity of the moment set in. He has now won all four majors before his 23rd birthday, a feat even the “Big Three” didn’t manage. For Djokovic, the loss marks his first ever defeat in an Australian Open final, leaving him stranded on 24 majors for at least another four months.
”It’s a dream come true,” Alcaraz said during the trophy ceremony. “To do it here, against the greatest champion this court has ever seen, with Rafa watching… I have no words.”
