1 week ago
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Carlos Alcaraz has become the youngest ever man to complete a career Grand Slam after defeating Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open final.
The Spanish tennis star beat Djokovic in four sets to keep the veteran from an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam singles title.
But the world number one made history of his own by winning the only Grand Slam singles title that had eluded him, becoming the youngest to win all four tournaments at the age of 22 years and 258 days.
His maiden title in Melbourne means he has eclipsed Don Budge - who wrapped up his at the 1938 French Open two days before his 23rd birthday.
The previous record in the Open era was held by fellow Spaniard Rafael Nadal, who was 24 years and 88 days old when he won the US Open in 2010 to complete the four slams.
Alcaraz becomes one of just six men to achieve the feat since 1968, in an esteemed list which also includes Djokovic himself and fellow modern great Roger Federer.
Djokovic started the match strongly by winning the opening set 2-6, but struggled with Alcaraz's intensity in the following two sets, with the Spaniard taking them 6-2 and 6-3.
It was a hotly contested final set, seeing both players hold their serve until 5-6, when Alcaraz broke Djokovic to earn his victory.
It sealed Alcaraz's seventh Grand Slam title in only 20 attempts.
Djokovic paid tribute to the winner after the match, saying: "Congratulations Carlos, an amazing tournament and an amazing couple of weeks. What you've been doing, the best word to describe it is: historic.
"It's legendary, and I wish you the best of luck for the rest of your career.
"You are young like me and I'm sure we'll be seeing each other many times over the next 10 years…not!"
He was non-committal when it came to his future in the sport, signing off at the Rod Laver Arena by saying: "I must be honest and say I did not think I would be standing at the closing ceremony of a Grand Slam again.
"God knows what happens tomorrow, but it's been a great ride. I love you all."
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