Carlos Alcaraz won his fifth grand slam on Sunday, at the exact same age as legend Rafael Nadal - and the 22-year-old believes it is his “destiny”.
Alcaraz was victorious against world no1 Jannik Sinner in a match for the ages on Sunday afternoon, defending his French Open title.
It broke the record for the longest final in French Open history after five hours and 29 minutes of incredible tennis.
The Spaniard produced a historic comeback, battling from two sets down to secure a remarkable 4-6 6-7 6-4 7-6 7-6 win against all odds.
Carlos Alcaraz secured a remarkable 4-6 6-7 6-4 7-6 7-6 win over Jannik Sinner to defend his French Open title
Reuters
Following the match, when spectators could eventually catch their breath, it became apparent that Alcaraz now shares an astonishing statistic with fellow compatriot Nadal.
Both players won their fifth grand slam at the age of 22 years, one month and three days.
After the game, Alcaraz described the feat as his “destiny”.
He said: “Honestly, the coincidence of winning my fifth grand slam at the same age as Rafael Nadal is, I mean, I’m going to say it, that’s destiny I guess!”
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Carlos Alcaraz described the 'coincidence' as his 'destiny'
Sky Sports
Sinner had been on the brink of victory, which would be his first Roland Garros title, as he led 5-3 in the fourth set.
However, the Italian squandered three championship points and handed the momentum firmly to Alcaraz.
The Spaniard said he was “proud” of how he dealt with the chaotic match.
“This one was the most exciting match that I have played so far, without a doubt,” he stated.
READ MORE: Carlos Alcaraz wins epic French Open final against Jannik Sinner to secure huge prize money
“I mean, today I think the match had everything, really good moments, really bad moments.
“[I’m] just really happy and proud of how I dealt with everything today.
He continued: “I mean, it wasn’t easy. [It is] the first match I have come from 2 sets to love down, and there isn’t a better location to do it than in a final of a grand slam.”
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Carlos Alcaraz fell to the floor after his historic victory
Reuters
In winning the match, Alcaraz became the first player ever to win his first five Grand Slam finals.
The 22-year-old also became the first man to win a Grand Slam title after saving match points since Novak Djokovic's victory over Roger Federer in the 2019 Wimbledon final.
For Sinner, though, the defeat denied him a third consecutive major title following his recent successes.
After the match, he reflected on a defeat that will undoubtedly be very tough to take.
"We tried our best today. We gave everything we had.
"Still an amazing tournament even though it is very, very difficult now.
"I won't sleep very well tonight but it is OK."
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