Carlos Alcaraz paid tribute to Novak Djokovic after clinching the Australian Open title, hailing the Serbian great for defying expectations and silencing critics once again. Alcaraz sealed a high-quality final with a 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 victory at Rod Laver Arena on Sunday, displaying poise and tactical clarity against one of the sport’s greatest rivals.
While the Spaniard lifted his first Australian Open crown, the narrative of the tournament was equally shaped by Djokovic’s resilience. Written off by many ahead of the tournament, the 38-year-old produced a blistering run, highlighted by a statement semi-final win over Jannik Sinner. In the final, Djokovic pressured Alcaraz with his typical intensity, shooting and court coverage, especially in a tense fourth set.
Acknowledging the extent of Djokovic’s achievements, Alcaraz underlined the physical and mental commitment required to return to a Grand Slam final at this stage in his career. The final looked like a compelling generational clash – youth prevailed on the day but greatness endured.
“What he’s doing is inspiring for all athletes. He’s putting his body, mind and life into getting to another Grand Slam final again. Everyone said he wouldn’t play another final or beat Jannik or himself,” Alcaraz said at the post-match press conference.
“Then he comes out, plays incredible tennis, beats Jannik in the semi-finals and does a great job again in the final. What he does is unbelievable,” Alcaraz added.
Carlos Alcaraz says Novak Djokovic proved many wrong who thought he would never play a Grand Slam final again:
“What he does is inspiring for all athletes. He puts his body, his mind, his life into the feeling of playing a Grand Slam final again. pic.twitter.com/Ede6kjXRAg— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) February 1, 2026
HOW DID DJOKOVIC FOCUS ON THE AUSTRALIAN OPEN?
Djokovic’s run at Melbourne Park was a testament to his resilience, longevity and competitive spirit. At 38, the Serbian legend became the oldest man in the Open Era to reach the Australian Open final, underscoring an extraordinary chapter in his career.
His campaign was defined by a thrilling five-set semi-final comeback against defending champion Jannik Sinner. After losing the first and third sets Djokovic won 3–6, 6–3, 4–6, 6–4, 6–4 in a match lasting over four hours, he saved 16 of 18 break points to secure a place in the final.
At the start of the tournament, Djokovic showed his typical consistency, going through the opening rounds in straight sets. By reaching his 11th Australian Open final, he further extended his remarkable legacy at a hard-court major.
Although he ultimately fell short of Carlos Alcaraz in the final, Djokovic’s run was characterized by bravery, tactical brilliance and physical resilience, reaffirming his status as one of tennis’ all-time greats.
– The end
Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
February 1, 2026
