After winning the US Open, Alcaraz responded to rumors about him attending parties, promising an even more “surprising” new hairstyle next!

After clinching the US Open title, Alcaraz responded to criticism about his party-going habits. The Spanish player defended himself by saying that taking breaks and enjoying some “quality moments” is important to keep his competitive drive alive.

Throughout the lengthy and demanding tennis season, many athletes adhere rigidly to their routines, but Alcaraz is different; he frequently takes several days to rest. His annual mid-season trips to Ibiza for parties have especially drawn attention and sparked criticism from some fans and fellow players.

In a recent interview with El País, Alcaraz revisited this topic after winning the US Open, stating: “Obviously, since the documentary ‘My Way’ came out, this has been talked about a lot and attracted much attention. People say I enjoy partying and living life! But who doesn’t like to enjoy life?”

He further explained that these breaks keep him motivated: “I believe this is why we train hard, endure pain, and stay away from home for long periods; it’s to have moments that belong to us, moments of happiness. Everyone has their own way, and for me, yes, I like to go out because I’m only 22. Who hasn’t done that at this age? Who didn’t fully enjoy themselves at 22? I like spending good times with family and friends, whether it’s partying or more relaxed activities. It’s about having quality time at home so I can stay driven for competition.”

Although Alcaraz has faced some criticism, top players like Djokovic have publicly defended him, emphasizing that his rest days clearly help him perform well on the court.

Alcaraz’s schedule has been very packed in recent weeks. Before the US Open, he competed at the Cincinnati Masters, finishing the final on August 19; just one day later, on August 20, he appeared at the US Open, partnering with Emma Raducanu in mixed doubles; afterward, he spent two busy weeks competing in singles in New York. Originally, he was scheduled to represent Spain in the Davis Cup against Denmark on September 13 and 14, but the rising star has already announced his withdrawal from the event.

Additionally, Alcaraz attracted media attention at the US Open with a buzz-cut hairstyle. This was actually the result of a humorous “accident” — his brother made a mistake while trimming his hair with clippers, forcing the Spaniard to shave his head completely. This look seemed to become his lucky charm. Alcaraz ultimately defeated Italy’s Sinner in the final at Arthur Ashe Stadium, avenging his Wimbledon loss and capturing the 2025 US Open title.

The day after winning the championship, Alcaraz joked in an interview with Murcia Radio that he might surprise everyone with a new look when he returns home, saying, “I’m going to give everyone a surprise; he already knows what I’m going to do.”

The “he” here refers to Alcaraz’s trusted Spanish hairstylist — Víctor Martínez, known as “Victor Barber,” famous for bold and avant-garde hairstyles. Alcaraz has a habit of changing his hairstyle before major tournaments; he debuted a sharp new cut during his French Open title defense. However, that style displeased some fans who directed criticism at “Victor Barber.”

In an interview with tennis journalist Ben Rothenberg, Martínez responded: “This hairstyle often receives criticism. In tennis, players usually keep longer, more traditional haircuts. Carlos’s style is bold and youthful... some people don’t like it, some do. He likes it, and so do I. So everything is fine.”

Martínez comes from humble beginnings, initially cutting simple hairstyles at home in a small village near Murcia. Over time, he built a client base and eventually earned the trust of the world’s number one player. Reflecting on his first time cutting Alcaraz’s hair, he admitted: “I was extremely nervous, very nervous but also happy. The first time I cut his hair, I couldn’t even hold the scissors properly. My hands were shaking, and I was sweating all over. Now I’m used to it, I put on some music and relax. But that first time? I couldn’t even steady the scissors.”

As for what new hairstyle Alcaraz will unveil next time he appears publicly, it remains a mystery.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Spark)