While the global tennis elite battles for points and prestige in Shanghai, Carlos Alcaraz has taken a different route. The Spanish star is in Madrid, not with a racquet in hand but a golf club, competing in the Open España Pro-Am. The event brings together professional athletes and celebrities for a relaxed yet competitive round of golf, far from the intensity of the ATP circuit.
A moment of pause before the season’s final sprint
Alcaraz’s decision to skip the Shanghai Masters has raised eyebrows among fans and commentators. With the ATP Finals approaching, many expected him to sharpen his form in Asia. Instead, he’s opted for a lighter schedule, perhaps prioritizing recovery and mental freshness. The Open España Pro-Am offers a unique setting for athletes to unwind while still engaging in sport.
A growing passion for golf
This isn’t Alcaraz’s first brush with golf. Alcaraz has previously expressed interest in the sport and has been spotted on Spanish courses during off-season breaks. His participation in the Madrid event signals a growing enthusiasm, and his swing—though not yet as polished as his forehand—is drawing attention.
Madrid over Shanghai: a strategic choice
Though no official statement has been released regarding his absence from Shanghai, the move suggests a calculated approach to the demanding calendar. With the indoor hard court season looming and the ATP Finals in Turin on the horizon, Alcaraz may be choosing quality over quantity.
Whether his time on the greens will translate into sharper play on the courts remains to be seen. For now, Madrid enjoys the presence of one of its brightest sporting stars—just not in the way fans expected.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2025
At the moment ranked no.1, Alcaraz played his last match on the 30th of September when he overcame world no.4 Taylor Fritz 6-4 6-4 in the final in Tokyo to win his 25th career title.
At present, during this year Alcaraz achieved an overall 67-7 win-loss record. The Spaniard conquered 8 titles in 2025 in Rotterdam, Monte-Carlo, Rome, French Open, London, Cincinnati, U.S. Open and Tokyo. The Spaniard got to the final in Barcelona and Wimbledon.
He is also scheduled to play in Paris (Rolex Paris Masters). The main draw will start on the 27th of October.