Story Summary
Carlos Alcaraz, the world No. 2 and reigning French Open champion, stirred as much curiosity with his look as he did with his tennis at the 2025 U.S. Open. Instead of his trademark tousled hair, the 22 year old Spaniard debuted a buzz cut that was noticeably “severe” and quickly became the talk of Flushing Meadows though not necessarily for the reasons he might have hoped (Yahoo Sports, FOX Sports, Reuters).
How It Happened: A Haircut Mishap
Alcaraz candidly explained that the dramatic makeover wasn’t premeditated. “My brother misunderstood with the machine. He just cut it,” he said, chuckling at the mishap that left his head nearly shaved (Reuters, The Tribune, The Independent). With his beloved stylist based in Spain flown in previously for a fade cut at the French Open Alcaraz noted that replicating that service in New York wasn’t feasible (Reuters, The Economic Times).
Still, he took the cut in stride: “Some people like it, some people don’t,” he quipped, and added that he could only laugh at the buzz his new look was creating (Reuters, The Independent, CNA). He also pointed out that hair grows fast “in two or three days it’s gone” so the buzz was likely only temporary (Reuters, The Independent).
The Reactions: Tiafoe’s Verdict and McIlroy’s Touch
Reactions were swift and colorful. American rival Frances Tiafoe who jokingly self identifies as something of a haircut connoisseur was blunt:
“It’s definitely terrible. He’s my guy though. I guess you’re aerodynamic,” he laughed, though he admitted “it’s horrendous” from his grooming standpoint (Globedge).
By contrast, golf superstar Rory McIlroy gave a gentler assessment. He approached Alcaraz courtside, ran his hand over the stubble, and reportedly said the look was “a good look” after Alcaraz jokingly mentioned he “struggled with” the haircut and “had to start fresh” (ATP Tour, ESPN.com, FOX Sports).
On the Court: Focused, Unfazed, and Efficient
Despite the buzz (no pun intended) over his look, Alcaraz delivered assured performance on the court. He dismantled the towering Reilly Opelka in straight sets 6-4, 7-5, 6-4 showcasing an impressive return game, minimizing unforced errors, and keeping the dominant server well in check (Reuters, FOX Sports).
Post match, Alcaraz engaged the crowd about his haircut, cheekily asking, “Do you like it, guys? I think they like it,” drawing cheers that overshadowed the snips (The Independent, FOX Sports).
His performance earned him a second round matchup with Italy’s Mattia Bellucci, as Alcaraz channeled attention away from his scalp and back onto his gold medal game (Reuters).
Final Thoughts
What began as a haircut mishap thanks to his brother’s overzealous clipper handling became a humorous sidelight at one of tennis’s most prestigious events. Friends and foes alike weighed in, with some like Tiafoe playfully roasting the look, and others, like McIlroy, giving it a mild thumb up. But ultimately, Alcaraz reminded everyone why the focus should remain on his tennis not his hair. Rallying through to a strong first round win, he proved that regardless of his appearance, his game remains razor-sharp.
