Tennis enthusiasts should expect to see more of Carlos Alcaraz sporting a distinctive pink nasal strip, as the Spanish sensation revealed that it has become a key tool in “helping him breathe better.” This choice, which may have caught fans’ attention during his recent ATP Finals match against Andrey Rublev, is more than a fashion statement—it appears to be a strategic move to enhance his performance amid health challenges.
Alcaraz initially donned the nasal strip during practice sessions leading up to the prestigious tournament in Turin. His team disclosed that he had been battling a cold, which prompted the use of the strip to alleviate his breathing difficulties. However, the 20-year-old chose to forego the accessory in his opening group-stage encounter against Casper Ruud. That decision coincided with a forgettable performance in which Alcaraz seemed out of sorts, succumbing to Ruud in straight sets. Afterward, his camp confirmed that the Spaniard was contending with both a stomach ailment and respiratory issues, factors that undoubtedly affected his form.
Questions immediately surfaced regarding Alcaraz’s capacity to continue in the ATP Finals, given the taxing nature of the competition. Yet, the young star returned to the court determined for his second match against Rublev. This time, he sported the pink nasal strip, a seemingly minor detail that became a major storyline as Alcaraz delivered a commanding 6-3, 7-6 (10-8) victory over the Russian. His resurgence and improved play raised eyebrows, and Alcaraz himself was quick to attribute some of his success to the nasal strip’s effect.
“Today I was a different person,” Alcaraz reflected after the match. “The band-aid helped me to open up and breathe a little better. And above all, I was clear about what I had to play, and that if I lost, nothing would happen.”
The 20-year-old went on to explain that his improved breathing allowed him to stay focused and adapt his game despite feeling under the weather. “I tried to go out and forget that I was sick, accept the situation, and find solutions. I had several options to play: the first one was to see how I felt—if I could play long rallies and run normally. If not, I would have changed my approach. But I’m glad I was able to feel great,” Alcaraz added.
The concept of using nasal strips to aid breathing is not new in professional sports. ATP player Nicolas Jarry is a known proponent of the method, while tennis legend Maria Sharapova and football stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Robbie Fowler have also used similar strips during their careers. Alcaraz cited Jarry’s use as a point of reference. “I know Nico wears that thing on his nose. It helped me a lot. I could breathe much better,” he noted. “It’s something I’m going to wear more often. I’m sure in the next match I’m going to wear it, and in training. I was able to recover better between rallies.”
Despite his clinical victory over Rublev, Alcaraz admitted that he is still not fully fit. While his stomach issues have eased, his respiratory symptoms persist. “What has been improving these days is my stomach, but as for the cold, my chest, I don’t see much improvement,” he revealed. “I continue to hope that, as the days go by, it will improve. If I feel better, great, and if not, I will try to show my best level as I am.”
Alcaraz’s grit and determination have been on full display throughout the season, but his decision to embrace a nasal strip speaks to a broader commitment to finding every possible edge in competition. As a player known for his relentless work ethic and ability to adapt, it is hardly surprising that he would explore unconventional measures to maintain peak performance. His next challenge at the ATP Finals is a high-stakes clash against Alexander Zverev. With another day to recover and prepare, fans will watch closely to see if Alcaraz’s pink nasal strip once again helps him breathe easier—and play better—on the court.
The broader context of Alcaraz’s health and his recovery efforts adds another layer of intrigue to his journey through the ATP Finals. As one of tennis’s brightest young stars, his every move is scrutinized, and his willingness to openly discuss his health struggles and adaptations is refreshing. While there is no guarantee that the nasal strip will remain a fixture in his routine, its immediate impact suggests it may become a staple in his toolkit.
The Spaniard’s ability to adapt and overcome adversity has already cemented his status as a force to be reckoned with on the ATP Tour. As he continues to battle through illness and the rigors of top-level competition, the pink nasal strip might just become a symbol of his resilience—a small but potent reminder of the relentless drive that defines champions.