Alcaraz Effect Takes Over NYC

World No. 2's charisma and skills draw crowds as he cruises into semis where Djokovic awaits

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NEW YORK - Carlos Alcaraz's buzz cut was the talk of the US Open when he began his quest for a second title at Flushing Meadows, but 10 days into 2025's final Grand Slam it is the Spaniard's tennis that is now turning heads in New York.

The 22-year-old generational talent is being tipped to carry the sport forward alongside world No. 1 Jannik Sinner as a golden era for the game nears its end, with his profile now at a level where even a haircut makes the news.

The five-time Grand Slam champion eased into the semi-finals at Flushing Meadows on Sept 2 with a 6-4, 6-2, 6-4 win over Jiri Lehecka, a victory which he marked with his now trademark golf swing celebration to the delight of the fans at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

He will next take on Novak Djokovic, who snuffed out Taylor Fritz's hopes of becoming the first American man to win a Grand Slam singles title since 2003, with a 6-3, 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 triumph.

"I think he's probably the most exciting thing in tennis right now," world No. 6 Ben Shelton said of second-ranked Alcaraz.

"The way he plays, the way he interacts with the crowd, he lights up the court. His smile, he's enjoying himself out there when he's having fun.