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Carlos Alcaraz’s breakthrough triumph at the Australian Open 2026 continues to reverberate far beyond the tennis world.
After defeating Novak Djokovic in a high-stakes final to claim his maiden Australian Open title, the 22-year-old Spaniard received widespread acclaim from across the sporting spectrum.
Among the most notable reactions came from reigning UFC Lightweight Champion Ilia Topuria, who publicly hailed Alcaraz’s historic achievement on social media.
A Historic Night in Melbourne
Alcaraz delivered one of the defining performances of his young career on Sunday, February 1, overcoming Novak Djokovic in a four-set battle at Melbourne Park.
After dropping the opening set 2-6, the Spaniard responded with remarkable composure, winning the next three sets 6-2, 6-3, and 7-5. The victory marked Alcaraz’s first Australian Open title and cemented his place in tennis history.
With the win, Carlos Alcaraz became the youngest player in the Open Era to complete the career Grand Slam at just 22 years old.
The milestone further underscored his rapid ascent in men’s tennis, having now captured all four major titles at an age when most players are still finding consistency on tour.
Ilia Topuria’s Message Steals Attention
Celebrating the achievement, UFC Lightweight Champion Ilia Topuria took to Instagram to congratulate Alcaraz. Topuria, known for his admiration of elite competitors across sports, shared a message that quickly gained traction among fans of both MMA and tennis.
“Cuando el talento se une al trabajo, nacen las leyendas. Enhorabuena por completar el Career Grand Slam. Eres imparable. Grande @carlitosalcarazz 🐐” which translates to, “When talent comes together with hard work, legends are born. Congratulations on completing Carlos Grand Slam. You are unstoppable. Great @carlitosalcarazz.”
Topuria’s words emphasized the blend of natural ability and relentless work ethic that has defined Alcaraz’s rise. Coming from a reigning UFC champion, the praise highlighted the respect Carlos Alcaraz commands even outside his own sport.
Mutual Respect Among Elite Athletes
Ilia Topuria’s reaction reflects a growing trend of crossover admiration among top athletes. Alcaraz’s fearless style, mental resilience, and ability to rebound after losing the opening set against Djokovic resonated with competitors who understand the demands of performing under extreme pressure.
The Australian Open final itself showcased Alcaraz’s evolution as a player. After Novak Djokovic controlled the first set with trademark precision, the Spaniard shifted momentum through aggressive baseline play and improved serve efficiency, ultimately outlasting the Serbian legend in a tense fourth set.
A Career-Defining Moment
Already a multiple-time Grand Slam champion heading into Melbourne, Carlos Alcaraz’s Australian Open success adds another defining chapter to his career.
Completing the career Grand Slam at 22 places him in rare company and strengthens his reputation as one of the most complete players of his generation.
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