Carlos Alcaraz

Carlos Alcaraz's first time: 'Let's play padel together and then tennis...'

Mar 23, 2025

He applauds. He chats with his friends. He even moves his shoulders to the beat when the DJ plays music during a changeover. Carlos Alcaraz's first time as a spectator at a world-class padel tournament, the motorola razr Miami Premier Padel P1, is a mix of fun and passion for a sport he truly enjoys.

Taking place at the Miami Beach Convention Center, next to RacquetX, Alcaraz confirms it himself, “The truth is, I really love padel. I play it whenever I have the chance, considering my competitive schedule. It’s my first time watching it live, and I’m really excited. Watching a match in person is incredible.”

Sitting in the VIP section, Carlos found himself among racquet sports legends, including Fernando Belasteguin, a padel icon and the tournament director in Miami. They exchange jokes and smiles as Bela shares some secrets of the sport, while Chingotto and Galan battle Nieto and Yanguas in the semifinals.

Carlitos’ enthusiasm for the incredible plays is clear as he chats with the president of the International Padel Federation, Luigi Carraro, and the CEO of Premier Padel, David Sugden. Meanwhile, a never-ending line of fans asking for selfies and autographs on padel balls forms at every changeover.

Carlos happily obliges, always smiling and patient. He follows the match, which turns into a rollercoaster—first set to Chingotto-Galan, second to Yanguas and Nieto. Excited by the action, he explains, “I know some padel players. When he came to watch me here in Miami, I met Coello, and we hit it off,” says Alcaraz, adding, “I told Arturo that one day he has to try playing tennis with me as a doubles partner, and I’ll play padel with him as a pair... We’ll do it someday.”

The Miami Open didn’t go as planned, but the past is the past, and the future is just around the corner. The season continues. He looks ahead and says, “Yes, and I’m really looking forward to it. I’m already preparing for the clay court season.”