Carlos Alcaraz, the 21-year-old Spanish tennis sensation, has become the most sought-after celebrity at the Paris Olympics. Despite being one of the tournament’s top contenders, Alcaraz has been making headlines for his infectious enthusiasm and willingness to pose for selfies with fellow athletes.
From Egyptian table tennis prodigy Hana Goda to badminton players Tiffany Ho and Thinaah Muralitharan, Alcaraz has been capturing the hearts of athletes from all over the world. Even his compatriot and doubles partner, Rafael Nadal, has joined in on the fun, making cameos in several of Alcaraz’s snapshots.
But it’s not just his fellow competitors who are eager to get a piece of Alcaraz. Andy Murray, who is playing in his final tournament before retirement, made sure to grab a photo with the rising star, calling him his “favorite athlete.”
Alcaraz’s joy and enthusiasm have been contagious, even for Olympic veterans like Nadal. “It reminds you of when you were 20,” Nadal said. “He shows what a professional he is in the way he is with teammates, and that is the legacy you leave in sport.”
Beyond his social media presence, Alcaraz’s infectious spirit has been evident on the court as well. He has been eagerly awaiting his Olympic debut, expressing his excitement about mixing with athletes from other sports and his lofty podium expectations.
As the No. 2 seed behind Novak Djokovic, Alcaraz will face Lebanon’s Hady Habib in the opening round. He and Nadal, who are unseeded in doubles, will open against the Argentine pair of Andres Molteni and Maximo Gonzales.
Alcaraz’s presence at the Olympics has not only brought joy to his fellow athletes but has also served as a reminder of the power of sportsmanship and camaraderie. His infectious enthusiasm and willingness to connect with others have made him a true ambassador for the Olympic spirit.
