Carlos Alcaraz hadn’t even struck a ball at the 2025 US Open before stealing the spotlight with a new look. The 22-year-old showed up at Arthur Ashe Stadium for his opening-round match against Reilly Opelka sporting a freshly shaved head, instantly sending the tennis world into a frenzy of commentary and memes.
Why Did Carlos Alcaraz Decide To Shave His Head Before the US Open?
The decision comes as Alcaraz continues his pursuit of a sixth Grand Slam title. While his tennis usually makes the headlines, this time it was his hair, or rather the absence of it, that stole the spotlight. The Spaniard explained his choice before the match, noting that he wanted to start fresh at a tournament that has historically brought him success.
😳 Carlos Alcaraz’s new haircut for the 2025 US Open pic.twitter.com/uREVHkCdlc
— Olly Tennis 🎾🇬🇧 (@Olly_Tennis_) August 25, 2025
Notably, he had also sported a cropped haircut when he lifted his first Major trophy at Flushing Meadows in 2022. “Well, I guess I need anything fresh to start a tournament as well as I can. And I think the U.S. Open suits me pretty well,” Alcaraz said in a pre-match interview.
Carlos Alcaraz walking up for his pre-match interview for his 1st round U.S. Open match:
“Here comes Carlos Alcaraz. Yes, this is in fact, Carlos Alcaraz.” 💀💀💀
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) August 26, 2025
How Did Tennis Fans React to Alcaraz’s Bold New Look?
Once Alcaraz stepped on court, reactions poured in from every corner of the internet. Former US Open champion Andy Roddick’s official podcast account posted on X, comparing the moment to a famous makeover scene from “The Princess Diaries,” quipping: “Carlos hair reveal is like that scene in the Princess Diaries where Mia wears a hat to school and I will not be explaining further.”
Carlos hair reveal is like that scene in the Princess Diaries where Mia wears a hat to school and I will not be explaining further
— Served with Andy Roddick (@Served_Podcast) August 25, 2025
Tennis insider José Morgado also chimed in, posting a side-by-side of Alcaraz’s looks from two consecutive days with the caption: “Same person. 24 hours between these photos.”
Same person.
24 hours between these photos. @ItTakesTennis pic.twitter.com/uaxLJWf5dk
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) August 25, 2025
Others leaned into humor, including one fan who shared a meme featuring his mixed doubles partner Emma Raducanu looking shocked.
https://t.co/cYUKIqMWwZ pic.twitter.com/uo7AYQcCNX
— 23 (@RENAWlLLlAMS) August 25, 2025
Fans chimed in with equal parts humor and disbelief, with one writing, “Bro looks like he’ll beat you up in a back alley,” while another pleaded, “He better glue that hair back on!!!” Others defended the move, with one user insisting, “Naaah I’m still looking at it and thinking it’s so cool. Istg no one will ever forget this.”
What’s Next for Alcaraz at the 2025 US Open?
Beyond the hair drama, Alcaraz went on to win his opening match 6-4, 7-5, 6-4 to reach the second round. He’ll take on Mattia Bellucci next, marking their first meeting on the ATP Tour. The winner will face the 32nd seed Luciano Darderi or local wildcard Eliot Spizzirri in the third round.
