Spanish sensation Carlos Alcaraz has chosen a path less traveled in preparation for the 2025 Australian Open, skipping warm-up tournaments in favor of off-season exhibitions and intense training sessions. The 21-year-old, already a four-time Grand Slam champion, is betting big on major changes to his game and equipment as he aims to make history in Melbourne.
A Heavier Weapon: Alcaraz’s Racket Transformation
One of the most intriguing changes in Alcaraz’s preparation lies in his racket. The Spaniard has long relied on the Babolat Pure Aero model, but this off-season, he and his coaching team, led by Juan Carlos Ferrero and newly added Samuel López, decided it was time for an upgrade. Alcaraz’s new racket now weighs five grams more—a nearly 2% increase that may seem minor but can dramatically alter a player’s performance.
“With that acceleration he has, he will gain in power and weight of the ball,” López explained. “It’s an extra help in the stroke. Just touching the ball in front takes advantage of the force of how it comes to you.”
The adjustments aim to increase forehand speed and ball weight, giving Alcaraz an edge against top rivals Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev. Additionally, Alcaraz tested new strings during his practice sessions at the Ferrero Tennis Academy and Club de Campo de Murcia, signaling his commitment to leaving no detail unchecked.
Fixing a Key Weakness: The Serve
Another critical focus during Alcaraz’s off-season was his serve—a shot scrutinized heavily during the 2024 season. Alcaraz, who recognized the need for improvement, has reportedly refined his serving motion to make it more fluid, reducing the preparation phase to one stop instead of two. This streamlined technique is designed to enhance his consistency and efficiency on serve, an area that has occasionally let him down in high-pressure moments.
“It’s clear that improving his serve is vital for his success in 2025,” a coach commented. “The new motion should give him more control and power, especially against the world’s best returners.”
Eyes on History: The Youngest Career Grand Slam?
As the World No. 3, Alcaraz has a clear target: to dethrone Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev, who currently occupy the top two spots in the ATP rankings. But the stakes in Melbourne are even higher. If Alcaraz can conquer the Australian Open, he would become the youngest man in history to achieve a Career Grand Slam—a feat that would cement his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
While some might question his decision to skip traditional warm-ups, Alcaraz’s meticulous preparation indicates a calculated risk. His revamped equipment, improved serve, and relentless training suggest he is leaving nothing to chance as he gears up for what could be a historic Australian Open campaign.
Will the Gamble Pay Off?
Alcaraz’s changes may give him the edge he needs to reclaim the ATP throne and dominate in 2025. But with the likes of Sinner, Zverev, and other contenders standing in his way, the ultimate test will come under the lights of Rod Laver Arena. One thing is certain: all eyes will be on Alcaraz as he looks to redefine tennis history.