Carlos Alcaraz is turning heads for more than just his return to tennis. The four-time Grand Slam champion surprised fans on social media by unveiling a dramatic new hairstyle, trading his signature longer locks for sleek boxer braids in what marks one of his boldest style transformations yet.
The 23-year-old shared the fresh look as part of a July photo dump on Instagram, giving followers a glimpse into his summer break ahead of his anticipated return to competition later this month.
© Carlos Alcaraz/IGAmong photos of training sessions, time with friends, and vacation moments, it was Alcaraz's braided hairstyle that immediately stole the spotlight.
The braided style has quickly become a trend among some of Spain's biggest sports stars this summer. Soccer player Marc Cucurella recently debuted a braided look of his own after years of being known for his trademark long, curly hair.
© Cucurella/IGWhile Cucurella opted for multiple individual braids, Alcaraz chose tighter boxer braids that run close to the scalp and finish at the nape of his neck.
The transformation appears to be a very recent one. Just weeks earlier, Alcaraz was still sporting the slightly longer hairstyle fans have come to associate with him, including during his appearance at the FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey, where he watched Spain defeat Argentina and posed for photos with match hero Ferran Torres.
Preparing for his return:
Beyond the haircut, the Instagram post also offered encouraging signs about Alcaraz's recovery from the wrist injury that has kept him off the ATP Tour since April.
© Carlos Alcaraz/IGThe Spanish star included several photos of himself back on court, racket in hand, as he continues preparing for his comeback. Alcaraz has been working his way back after suffering the injury during the Barcelona Open earlier this season.
His name was initially included on the entry list for both the Canadian Open and the Cincinnati Open. However, he ultimately withdrew from the Canadian tournament to continue his rehabilitation, leaving Cincinnati as the likely stage for his long-awaited return if he is fully recovered.
© Carlos Alcaraz/IGA summer of relaxation:
When he hasn't been training, Alcaraz has made the most of his time away from competition.
© Carlos Alcaraz/IGHis photo collection also featured moments from a vacation with close friends along Italy's coast near Naples, where he relaxed aboard his yacht, as well as highlights from his trip to New York for the World Cup final.
With a fresh hairstyle, renewed training sessions, and fans eagerly awaiting his return, Alcaraz appears ready to begin the next chapter of his season, both on and off the court.
