Novak Djokovic had high praise for Carlos Alcaraz following their Australian Open final battle, saying that the 22-year-old was already "a legend" and someone who has left "a huge mark in tennis history."
On Sunday, both Djokovic and Alcaraz were playing for history – the 38-year-old Serb was looking to become the first male or female tennis player with 25 Grand Slam singles titles, while the 22-year-old Spaniard was bidding to become the youngest player ever with a Career Grand Slam record.
In the end, it was the top-ranked Spaniard who added another accomplishment to his resume after coming back from a set down to beat Djokovic 2-6 6-2 6-3 7-5.
Now, three months before his 23rd birthday, Alcaraz has seven Grand Slam titles in his collection – Australian Open (1), French Open (2), Wimbledon (2), US Open (2). Also, the Spaniard has spent 57 weeks as the world No. 1 – which already places him at No. 14 on the all-time list in that category.
Djokovic: Alcaraz is already a legendary tennis player that made a huge mark in tennis history
“The results are a testament to his already stellar career. Can’t think of any superlatives about him. He deserves every bit of praise he gets. He’s a very nice young man. Good values. Nice family. Already a legendary tennis player that made a huge mark in the history books of tennis, with only 22 years of age," the record 24-time Grand Slam champion said in his post-final press conference.
After becoming a multiple champion at the French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open, Alcaraz didn't hide that his biggest priority for the start of 2026 would be to finally make a breakthrough at Melbourne Park.
As for Djokovic, the 38-year-old Serb will hope he can get another strong shot this year at landing a historic 25th Grand Slam.
