By Miguel Mike Medina
Photo Credit: AP
Carlos Alcaraz defeats Novak Djokovic to win the Australian Open. He won the match in four sets: 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5. Alcaraz becomes the youngest tennis player to complete the Grand Slam.
At 22, Alcaraz has become a great ambassador for the game of Tennis. His preparation, focus, detail, and commitment to the sport are unparalleled. His defense against Novak was impressive in this match. With this victory, he joins Djokovic, Roger Federer, Andre Agassi, and his fellow Spaniard Rafael Nadal as the only tennis players to complete the Grand Slam in the Open era.
Nasal was in attendance to witness the final between two great athletes.Â
Djokovic won the first set and had all the momentum. However, just like his match against Alexander Zverev, Carlitos didn’t panic. He’s been in this situation before. Alcaraz fought back in the second set. In the third set, it was a heavyweight fight between Alcaraz and Djokovic. Both men made the match enjoyable throughout, but only one player emerged victorious: Alcaraz.Â
When Alcaraz realized the moment he won the match, he dropped to the ground and soaked in the moment. The moment was raw and honest.Â
Djokovic has won the Australian Open 10 times. If he had won this match, not only would it have been his eleventh win, but it would have secured his 25th Grand Slam victory. Regardless, he’s still the greatest ever. During his postgame runner-up speech, he shared kind words for Carlos and his incredible talent. The speech was also entertaining.Â
“You’re so young,” Djokovic said. “You have a lot of time, like me. So I’m sure we’ll be seeing each other many more times in the next 10 years.”Â
When it was Alcaraz’s turn to give his speech, he had this to say about Djokovic.Â
“What you’re doing is really inspiring,” Alcaraz said. “Not only for the tennis players, but for the athletes around the world, for me as well. Putting in the hard work with your team, going to every tournament, and playing such great tennis. I just enjoy watching you so much.”Â
Alcaraz also acknowledged his team for always challenging him and staying by his side. There have been some rollercoaster moments, but they have achieved something special together. He finished the speech by summarizing it in one sentence.Â
“This trophy is always yours,” Alcaraz said.Â
The head-to-head record between Djokovic and Alcaraz is tied 5-5. It’s one of the greatest rivalries in tennis alongside Jannik Sinner and Alcaraz.Â
Miguel Mike Medina is the publisher of The MMM Journal. He can be reached at medinamiguelmike@gmail.com and themmmjournal@gmail.comÂ
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