How Tennis Star Carlos Alcaraz Became Enamored with Formula 1
Carlos Alcaraz, the tennis sensation, has developed a strong bond with Formula 1, largely inspired by fellow Spaniard Fernando Alonso. Alcaraz's admiration for Alonso has led to memorable paddock visits and public gestures of support.
The Formula 1 paddock often hosts celebrity guests, but few embrace the sport like tennis star Carlos Alcaraz. With the Spanish Grand Prix and US Open finals coinciding this weekend, it's a fitting moment to explore Alcaraz's growing connection with F1 and his camaraderie with Fernando Alonso.
Carlos Alcaraz, back in action after an injury, is set to compete in the US Open quarter-finals. However, his interests extend beyond tennis, particularly towards Formula 1, thanks to his compatriot, Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin.
The Alonso Influence
Though Alcaraz wasn't initially an F1 enthusiast, Alonso's influence has converted him into a dedicated follower of the sport. This newly found interest was first publicly evident during the 2023 Miami Open. After a quarter-final win, Alcaraz scribbled '33? Soon' on a camera lens, a nod to Alonso's quest for a 33rd Grand Prix victory. Alonso's strong start that season made the gesture all the more pertinent.
Alcaraz openly credits Alonso for his F1 fandom. "Fernando has made me into a Formula 1 fan," he stated after the Miami match, noting how he now follows races to cheer for the two-time World Champion. Alcaraz has even pondered what type of driver he would be, humorously suggesting heâd adopt an aggressive style on track.
Paddock Adventures
Alcaraz's friendship with Alonso naturally led to paddock visits. After early exits from the 2024 US Open, he and fellow tennis player Matteo Berrettini attended the Italian Grand Prix. Alcaraz returned to the F1 scene in 2026 during Bahrain pre-season testing, mingling with teams like McLaren, Aston Martin, Williams, and Ferrari.
The "CarlosÂČ" encounter at Williams saw Alcaraz and Carlos Sainz catching up, though their conversation veered towards golf rather than cars or tennis. Alcaraz's Aston Martin garage visit included warm exchanges with Alonso and a peek at team operations.
The Tennis-F1 Connection
The interplay between tennis and F1 isn't one-sided. Current World No. 1 Jannik Sinner, though injured, appeared at the Italian Grand Prix, maintaining his ties with drivers like Kimi Antonelli. Sinner, a Friend of F1 since 2023, has been a familiar face at races, including waving the chequered flag at the 2024 Abu Dhabi finale.
Big names like Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams, and Berrettini have appeared in the F1 paddock, reflecting the mutual attraction between the sports. Meanwhile, F1 drivers have been spotted courtside at tennis events, including the Monte Carlo Masters, where several drivers enjoyed the matches firsthand.
Whether courtside or trackside, the synergy between tennis and F1 continues to thrive, with Alcaraz and Alonso's connection serving as a testament to this unique sporting crossover.