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New Delhi: Carlos Alcaraz became the youngest man ever to complete a career Grand Slam after defeating Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open final to secure the title. The World No.1 Alcaraz dropped the opening set on Sunday as Djokovic went out hard to win a record 25th major title, but the Spaniard rallied to a 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 victory.
Alcaraz scrambled to retrieve shots that usually would be winners for Djokovic, also keeping intense pressure on his 38-year-old rival. After he secured victory, Alcaraz fell to the ground on his back, putting his hands to his head.
He stayed on the ground for a few seconds before going to the net to shake hands with the Serbian. Alcaraz and Djokovic were coming from a gruelling five-set semifinal victories and showed great fitness, athleticism and stamina for three hours in the final.
The Serbian's push for the 25th Grand Slam singles title has now been blocked by Alcaraz or Jannik Sinner for nine majors. He defeated Sinner in the semifinals and was looking to become the oldest man to clinch a Grand Slam title in the Open era, but Alcaraz delivered a brilliant performance.
At 22 years and 272 days, Alcaraz became the youngest man to complete a set of all four major singles titles. He broke the record set by Don Budge in the 1938 French championships, when he was 22 years and 363 days.
The prize money at the Australian Open continues to grow every year, and 2026 was no exception. The 2026 Australian Open had announced a total prize money of AU $111.5 million, which is approximately US $75 million (Rs 6,87,70,87,500 approx).
After his win, Alcaraz will get a whopping USD 2.79 million (Rs 25.61 crore approx), which is an increase of 19% from 2025, while Novak Djokovic will receive USD 1,447,165 (Rs 13.26 crore).
