Lorraine Williamson
Carlos Alcaraz made tennis history at the 2025 Roland Garros final by defeating Jannik Sinner in a five-hour-and-29-minute battle — the longest final in the tournament’s history. The 22-year-old Spaniard came from two sets down to claim the title in a match that tested physical endurance and mental strength.
The turning point came as Alcaraz recalled the resilience of Rafael Nadal. “I played with my heart, as Rafa always does,” he said. Drawing inspiration from his childhood hero, he levelled the match and forced a deciding set. Despite Sinner missing three match points, Alcaraz eventually triumphed in a tiebreak.
A Murcian upbringing shaped by sport
Born on 5 May 2003 in El Palmar, Murcia, Alcaraz grew up in a family immersed in tennis. His father, Carlos Alcaraz González, was a professional player and now works as a tennis director in Murcia. His mother, Virginia Garfia Escandón, supported the family while raising Carlos and his three brothers, Álvaro, Sergio and Jaime — all of whom share his competitive drive.
In 2019, Alcaraz moved to Villena, Alicante, where his training intensified under a dedicated coaching setup.
The ‘three C’s’ behind his mindset
After the final, an emotional Alcaraz referenced the mantra taught to him by his grandfather — cabeza (head), corazón (heart), and cojones (guts). This personal philosophy helps him remain mentally focused, emotionally committed, and physically fearless on court.
He has since had the three C’s tattooed on his body. This is a permanent reminder of the mindset that carries him through every challenge.
Tattoos mark milestones in a rising career
Each major title has left its mark. After winning the US Open in 2022, Alcaraz had the three C’s inked. A strawberry symbolises his Wimbledon wins, and an Eiffel Tower marks his 2024 Roland Garros victory. Following his latest triumph in Paris, speculation continues about what design might commemorate it — perhaps a lion or a fist, reflecting strength and defiance.
Grand Slam tally grows as history beckons
Alcaraz now holds five Grand Slam titles:
- two at Roland Garros (2024, 2025)
- two at Wimbledon (2023, 2024)
- the 2022 US Open
The Australian Open remains the only major yet to fall under his belt.
His prize money now exceeds €40 million, with over €2.5 million earned from the 2025 Roland Garros title alone. In 2022, he became the youngest player to reach world number one — a record that still stands.
Netflix documentary follows his unique path
Alcaraz continues to reside in Villena, where he balances training with a more relaxed pace of life. Fans looking to explore his rise from Murcia to global stardom can watch Carlos Alcaraz: A Mi Manera on Netflix, which follows his personal and professional journey.
As his career progresses, Alcaraz remains not only a major figure in tennis but also a role model for a new generation of athletes.
Sources: wikipedia.org, ELPAÍS