World No 1 Carlos Alcaraz completed a career Grand Slam - winning all four major singles title - at the age of 22 with a four-set victory over Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open final.
Alcaraz was four years old when Djokovic first reached the final here in 2008, and in the clash of the generations it was the Spaniard who came out on top with a 2-6 6-2 6-3 7-5 victory on Rod Laver Arena.
With two trophies at each at the French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open, Alcaraz became the youngest man to complete the career Grand Slam with his maiden title in Melbourne, eclipsing Don Budge - who wrapped up his at the 1938 French Open two days before his 23rd birthday - and denying the Serb a record 25th major title.
It is the first time in 11 finals at Melbourne Park that Djokovic has not come out the victor, but, having beaten one of the two new kings of men's tennis, Jannik Sinner, in an extraordinary semi-final, the other one was a step too far.
The man from Murcia is five years younger than Djokovic was when he reached seven Grand Slam titles, with only Bjorn Borg anywhere close to the same figures.
"Nobody knows how hard I've worked to get this trophy," said Alcaraz after lifting the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup.
"I chased this moment so much. I appreciate it was a rollercoaster emotionally, and my team and I went through stuff but did the right work. This trophy is yours as well.
"I can't wait to come back here next year."
How Alcaraz came from a set down to defeat Djokovic...
The watching Rafael Nadal, who must have been having flashbacks to his battles with Djokovic here, nodded his approval.
Nadal never got the better of his great rival on Rod Laver Arena - very few have - but Alcaraz was showing his full box of tricks, and Djokovic was powerless to resist.
Djokovic took tablets during a visit from the trainer before the fourth set, and hung on grimly through an epic first service game, saving six break points and soaking up the energy from his fans.
Would Nadal perhaps like to play in his place, Djokovic inquired of the Spaniard, who chuckled in response and stayed firmly in his seat.
Djokovic grimaced after just missing a forehand that would have given him a 5-4 lead, Alcaraz roaring in delight after surviving the game.
It was to prove Djokovic's final chance, with Alcaraz collapsing to the court after a final forehand from his opponent flew long.
Djokovic said in a gracious and funny speech: "I'm sure we'll be seeing each other many more times in the next 10 years... not."
The Serbian appeared to cast doubt on whether he has another crack at this title in him, saying to the crowd: "I must be very honest and say I didn't think I would be standing in the closing ceremony of a grand slam once again.
"God knows what happens tomorrow, let alone in six months or 12 months. It has been a great ride. I love you guys."
