Aug 25, 2025; Flushing, NY, USA; Carlos Alcaraz of Spain in action against Reilly Opelka of the United States in the first round of the men’s singles at the US Open at Arthur Ashe Stadium in Billie Jean King National Tennis Centre.

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Rory McIlroy Gives His Nod of Approval After Carlos Alcaraz Gets Jaw-Dropping Hairdo at US Open 2025

Alcaraz won his opening round match in straight sets.

Ahead of his opening round match-up at the 2025 US Open, World No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz stunned the world with a brand new hair style. The fresh look has received mixed reactions since then, with American star Frances Tiafoe declaring it as “terrible!” However, golfing icon Rory McIlroy seems to enjoy the new hairdo of the five-time Grand Slam champion more than most people.

McIlroy Approves New Hair Style of Carlos Alcaraz

Feliz de estar de vuelta en NYC! ❤️🤩🫶🏻 pic.twitter.com/mPcc6odYLd
— Carlos Alcaraz (@carlosalcaraz) August 26, 2025

Fans were left stunned when images of ‘Carlitos’ sporting a buzz cut emerged across social media platforms. Just a day ago, the Spaniard was seen practising with his regular hair style. However, he clarified what exactly happened after winning his Round of 128 encounter against American Reilly Opelka on Monday night. “Before the tournament, I said that I really want to get a hair-cut,” remarked the reigning Roland Garros champion.

“Suddenly my brother just misunderstood with the machine. He just cut it, and the only way to fix it was to shave it off. To be honest it’s not that good [but] it’s not that bad either I guess.” Alcaraz also stated that he couldn’t bring his regular barber Victor, as New York was too far away for him. But during his pre-match preparations, the 2024 Paris Olympics silver medalist received the nod of approval from none other than Rory McIlroy.

Alcaraz explains the new haircut to Rory McIlroy. pic.twitter.com/60qA5hPOuD
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) August 25, 2025

“Why this [hairdo],” questioned the five-time major champion and former World No. 1 in golf. “Just got a hair-cut that I struggled with. I mean, I had to start fresh,” replied Alcaraz. Surprisingly enough, McIlroy was quite the fan of the new look. “Yeah, good, I like it. It’s good – it’s a good look.”

Alcaraz Cruises in US Open 2025 Opener

Hours after his meeting with the golfing legend, Carlos Alcaraz entered Arthur Ashe Stadium for his opening round match against Opelka. It was a fine display from the #2 seed, who managed to pull off a 6-4 7-5 6-4 victory to ensure his dream of winning a second US Open crown stays alive. Walking out with a bordeaux-coloured sleeveless kit, Alcaraz raised his level in the important moments. Despite his hairdo undergoing changes, it was business as usual on court.

Opelka played a fearless game on Monday night, striking powerful serves and going full throttle on the forehand – even if it meant leaving an open court. Unfortunately for him, Alcaraz’s break point conversion of 3/11 was still enough to get him over the line. Next up for the World No. 2, is a Round of 64 clash against Italian southpaw Mattia Bellucci. Alcaraz will be wary of the challenge, particularly considering the fact that he was eliminated at the same stage last year.

Provided Alcaraz can match or better the performance of top seed Jannik Sinner, he will stand atop the men’s rankings at the end of the tournament. Can he do so? Let’s wait and watch.

(Image Credits: Mike Frey, Imagn Images)

ATP

Carlos Alcaraz

Frances Tiafoe

Golf

Reilly Opelka

Rory McIlroy

Tennis

US Open 2025

Sankalp Harikrishnan

A passionate sports fan through and through, I am currently pursuing my MA in Global Sports Journalism. I specialise in tennis and football writing at The Playoffs News, and I have prior experience working at EssentiallySports and Sportskeeda. Born and raised in Bengaluru, India, sport was my safe space right from my childhood. After trying my hand at multiple sports and representing my educational institutions in cricket, badminton and table tennis, I found sports media to be my calling.