Carlos Alcaraz has had plenty to celebrate at this year’s US Open. The defending champion returned to action after more than four months out with a wrist injury, has progressed to the fourth round and has appeared increasingly comfortable with every match.
However, an unexpected issue also became a talking point around Flushing Meadows — his nipples.
Alcaraz’s loose brown Nike tank top, designed as part of the Travis Scott x Cactus Jack collaboration, attracted attention during his opening two matches. The sleeveless shirt repeatedly shifted while he played, revealing more of the Spaniard’s chest than he appeared to want.
The internet quickly picked up on the wardrobe mishap, with former WTA player Eugenie Bouchard joining the jokes by telling the seven-time Grand Slam winner to “put the nip away”.
By the time Alcaraz stepped onto Arthur Ashe Stadium for his third-round clash with China’s Wu Yibing on Friday, he had made a small but obvious adjustment.
He continued to wear the brown tank top but added a white undershirt underneath.
After beating Wu 6-3, 6-4, 6-1, the 23-year-old explained the rather straightforward reason behind the change.
“Well, I think I've been seeing too much of my nipples lately,” Alcaraz said with a laugh. “I figured I could cover them up for today's match.”
Nike had not asked him to make the change.
Alcaraz stressed that adding the extra layer had been his own decision.
“No, it was my decision,” he said. “I wouldn't have minded playing like that again, but if we can sort it out this way, it was good.”
It seems the new look could become permanent.
“I feel really comfortable with another shirt. So I think I'm going to stay like that,” Alcaraz added.
US OPEN: ALCARAZ RACES INTO ROUND 4
The clothing issue has provided a humorous side story to what has otherwise been a significant comeback for the Spaniard.
Alcaraz arrived in New York after spending more than four months away from competitive tennis because of his wrist injury, raising questions about how quickly he could regain his rhythm following such a lengthy absence.
So far, his return has been highly encouraging.
The defending champion has dropped only one set across his opening three matches and delivered another commanding display against Wu. He did not face a single break point as he secured his place in the fourth round.
“After four months without competing ... when you play an official match with the nerves and everything, the day after or right after, your body can feel really tight,” Alcaraz said.
“It didn't happen to me and I'm feeling better and better after every match. It feels like I've been competing the whole time. I've surprised myself with the way I'm recovering after every match.”
ALCARAZ FACES TOMMY PAUL
Alcaraz’s next opponent will be American 20th seed Tommy Paul, who advanced to the fourth round after defeating Alexander Bublik 6-4, 3-6, 6-7(4), 6-1, 6-3.
Paul is a familiar rival for Alcaraz but has lost their last five encounters.
“He's a really talented player, really difficult one to play,” Alcaraz said. “I think he's really dangerous for everyone on the tour. I'm really looking forward to playing him once again.”
For the moment, Alcaraz’s return to the US Open is progressing smoothly. His tennis continues to improve, his wrist has held up well and, after two matches involving some unwanted exposure, his wardrobe problem appears to have been resolved as well.
