Last Updated on March 29, 2022
The talented 18-year old Spaniard caught the eye of the fans for the first time at the 2021 U.S. Open. Alcaraz knocked out top-10 seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in the third round of that tournament in a tight five-set match. Carlos then reached the quarterfinals of the last Grand Slam tournament of the year where he lost to Felix Auger.
Many experts tend to call Alcaraz a real phenomenon in modern big tennis, as well as a potential successor to the Big Three. On the one hand, his physical characteristics bring him closer to Nadal – they are the same height, and besides, Carlos hits just as well with both hands. On the other hand, he has that rare intuition that marks Roger Federer, always famous for his almost uncanny ability to anticipate his opponent. He and Djokovic are alike in their mobility and agility, as well as their ability to wear down opponents with deceptive or simply inconvenient blows.
Despite his young age, Carlos Alcaraz can be proud of his powerful forehand, strong volley skills, and ability to withstand long exchange of strokes. He is not afraid to make mistakes and takes defeats calmly, noting that he still has a lot to learn.
What racquet does Carlos Alcaraz use?
Carlos Alcaraz currently plays with the Babolat Pure Aero VS.
Specifications:
- Head Size:98 in / 632.26 cm
- Length:27in / 68.58cm
- Strung Weight:11.3oz / 320g
- Balance::12.75in / 32.39cm / 6 pts HL
- Composition:Graphite
With roots stretching all the way back to the 2007 Aero Storm, the Pure Aero VS continues its journey as a more controlled version of the standard Pure Aero. For 2022, Babolat added extra mass, a thicker frame and a more Head Light balance, while still maintaining the precision and spin of the previous generation. With a 630 sq. cm. head size and a 16×20 string pattern, this racquet’s control allows you to make wide strokes (generating interesting levels of power and spin). It also features a swing weight of 321-RDC, making it perfect for running shots.
For this update, Babolat continues to use the Aeromodular frame, adding Pure Cortex shock-absorbing material at the 3 and 9 o’clock position of the headstock for added softness and power at ball impact. It also features FSI Spin technology, featuring increased spacing and larger grommets at the 6 and 12 o’clock oval to maximize string movement and resilience. On the forehand, the Pure Aero VS is explosive and surgical, while the thicker frame improves power and torsional stability.
The speed not only translates to spin, but also faster responses on serve and at net. On serve it offers power, spin and precision. Overall, with this update to the Pure Aero VS, Babolat continues on the positive track. Aggressive tennis players looking for speed and spin will love this model.
Video: Carlos Alcaraz is training with a racket on the court
We found a video of Carlos Alcaraz training for you, so you can assess how he performs strokes, what grip he uses.
