Carlos Alcaraz has started 2026 in style, winning his first Australian Open title and completing the Career Grand Slam at just 23 years old. Now, his coach Samuel Lopez believes the Spaniard is ready to chase a feat that even Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer never achieved — the Calendar Grand Slam.
The Challenge
- Alcaraz already owns a Surface Slam (2024) and now the Career Slam (2026).
- With Melbourne secured, he could become the first man since Rod Laver in 1969 to win all four majors in a single season.
- Djokovic came closest in 2021, winning three Slams before losing the US Open final to Daniil Medvedev.
- Federer and Nadal also won three majors in a year but fell short of the full sweep.
Lopez’s Ambition
- “The challenge would be to win all four Grand Slams this year. It’s ambitious, but possible,” Lopez told Spanish media.
- He praised Alcaraz’s pre-season commitment, intensity, and willingness to adapt under his guidance.
Historical Context
- Only Rod Laver (1962, 1969) and Don Budge (1938) have completed the Calendar Slam.
- Alcaraz would be the youngest in history to achieve it if he succeeds in 2026.
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