Tennis fans at Flushing Meadows were treated to an unexpected spectacle as Spanish prodigy Carlos Alcaraz arrived at the US Open sporting a radically transformed appearance. The reigning Wimbledon champion unveiled a strikingly short buzzcut, marking a dramatic departure from his usual tousled locks.
The drastic haircut comes as the fulfilment of a lighthearted promise made to his followers on social media. Following his spectacular victory at Wimbledon, Alcaraz had jokingly vowed to undergo a dramatic shearing if enough fans engaged with his celebratory post.
'I promised if I got 50,000 likes I would cut my hair,' the good-humoured athlete explained to reporters. 'It was a promise I had to keep, even if the result is... interesting.'
The young star's new look has generated considerable buzz around the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, with fellow players and fans alike sharing their amusement on various social platforms. The dramatic change has quickly become one of the most talked-about topics of the tournament's opening days.
Despite the attention on his appearance, Alcaraz remains focused on defending his US Open title. The world number one appears unfazed by the commotion, treating the situation with the characteristic charm and humour that has endeared him to tennis enthusiasts worldwide.
As the competition intensifies, all eyes will be on whether Alcaraz's bold new look brings him luck on the court as he seeks to add another Grand Slam trophy to his growing collection.
