Carlos Alcaraz has finally explained the unusual pre-match routine that fans often notice before his matches.
The Spanish star was asked about the ritual after advancing to the semifinals at Indian Wells.
Alcaraz had just defeated Cameron Norrie in straight sets to continue his run in the tournament.
Carlos Alcaraz explains his tennis ball juggling routine after Indian Wells win
Alcaraz spoke about the routine in a post-match interview after beating Cameron Norrie 6-3, 6-4 in the quarterfinals at Indian Wells.
“It’s because my physio told me to do it. And I just obey, obey him (smiling). So I don’t know if it’s helpful or not, but I took it as a routine.
“Everything went well since I started to do it, so why sort of change?” Alcaraz said.
The ritual involves Alcaraz juggling tennis balls with his racket during the warm-up before stepping onto the court.
Fans have frequently noticed the routine during television broadcasts, often wondering whether it plays a role in helping the world-class player prepare mentally before matches.
Alcaraz suggested the habit simply became part of his preparation once he saw positive results after adopting it.
Carlos Alcaraz says physio started the routine years ago
The four-time Grand Slam champion also revealed the practice began several years ago after advice from his physiotherapist.
“So I just keep it like that, and if my physio says it or I need to do it, I just, I’m gonna do it, for sure. [It began] a couple of years ago. Yeah, a couple of years ago from now,” Alcaraz added.
Since adopting the routine, Alcaraz has continued to use it before matches as part of his warm-up process.
While he admitted he is not entirely sure whether the exercise directly improves his performance, he believes consistency in preparation can make a difference.
Given his continued success on tour, the Spanish star sees no reason to abandon the habit anytime soon.
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