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Carlos Alcaraz 'writes retirement message' on TV camera after winning final
Reach Daily Express | February 1, 2026 11:39 PM CST

Tennis player turned TV pundit Jamie Murray has joked that Carlos Alcaraz might have announced his own retirement with a message written, literally on camera, following his victory over Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open final. The Spaniard beat his opponent in four sets at the Rod Laver Arena to lift the title for the first time - and complete a career Grand Slam.

In doing so, Alcaraz becomes the youngest player to achieve that feat, beating the record held by Rafael Nadal. Tennis icon Nadal even watched the match from the stands, lending his support to his fellow countryman.

After securing his victory, Alcaraz scribbled on a TV camera screen: "Job finished, 4/4 complete." In commentary on TNT Sports, Murray joked: "Maybe that's his retirement message. That's him done. Mic drop!"

Alcaraz's message instead referred to him winning all four Grand Slams on offer over his already-glittering career. His target will now be to get close, or even beat, the number of tites earned by the likes of Djokovic.

The Serbian icon has won a total of 24 Grand Slams. He's still on the hunt for a record 25th, but will have a bit longer to wait for that particular milestone.

Reacting to the victory, Alcaraz spoke about the work that has gone on behind the scenes to get his hands on the trophy for the first time. "My team in the corner, nobody knows how hard I've been working to get this trophy and my pre-season was a bit of a rollercoaster emotionally," he said.

"We just did the right work, you pushed me every day to do the right things and I'm really grateful for everyone in my corner. This trophy is also yours."

The title comes not long after Alcaraz announced his split from long-term coach Juan Carlos Ferrero, who had coached the 22-year-old since he was 15. The Spaniard has continued to work with Samuel Lopez, who joined the team back in 2024.

For Alcaraz, eyes are already on next year's tournemanet as he looks to defend his crown. "Everyone who made this tournament possible - this tournament is a great tournament for the players," he said.

"The site is amazing, every year upgrades are made to make us feel comfortable. I'm really grateful for everything you're doing for us and it's an honour to play here in Melbourne every year.

"The love I receive every year, it's great support and great love. It's not just when I play the matches, every time I step on court for practice, I feel the love from the people, too. I want to say thank you very much for pushing me in the tough moments during matches. Thank you very much and I can't wait to come back next year."


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