“There have been months when I've played more golf than tennis”: Carlos Alcaraz's golf obsession comes out in Etcheverry vlog

Sunday, 11 October 2026 at 08:30

Carlos Alcaraz's passion for golf took centre stage in a playful exchange with Tomás Martín Etcheverry, as the Spaniard discussed his favourite tournament outside Spain, his handicap and the advice he would give the next generation. The world No. 3 offered a glimpse into his life away from competition, admitting that his interest in golf has occasionally rivalled the sport that made him a global star.

The conversation has attracted attention during the Shanghai Masters, where Alcaraz is looking to build on his recent success in Tokyo. The second seed opened his campaign with a 6-3, 6-3 victory over Argentina's Juan Manuel Cerúndolo and will next face Belgian Zizou Bergs as he continues his bid for a strong finish to the Asian swing.

The interview appeared in Etcheverry's vlog, which follows the Argentine's experiences on tour beyond the matches and practice courts. While Alcaraz is advancing in Shanghai, Etcheverry's own campaign ended in his opening match against Czech qualifier Dalibor Svrčina, despite entering the tournament as the No. 28 seed.

Their exchange moved from light-hearted questions about food and golf to a more thoughtful discussion about pursuing ambitions. Alcaraz revealed why Indian Wells holds a special place among his favourite tournaments, explained how seriously he takes golf and shared a message for young players hoping to follow in his footsteps.

Alcaraz admits golf has sometimes taken priority over tennis

Asked to name his favourite tournament outside Spain, Alcaraz did not hesitate to choose Indian Wells. The Californian event offers more than an opportunity to compete at Masters 1000 level, with its relaxed surroundings and access to golf facilities making it an especially appealing stop on the ATP calendar.

“Indian Wells, mate,” Alcaraz answered, before explaining what makes the tournament so enjoyable. “The golf, being able to relax and feel at home… The tournament is incredible.”

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

Una publicación compartida por Carlos Alcaraz Garfia (@carlitosalcarazz)

His interest in golf goes well beyond an occasional round during tournament weeks. “I'm down to 11,” Alcaraz said when asked about his handicap, prompting Etcheverry to respond: “You're a beast!”

Laughing, Alcaraz even admitted that his hobby has sometimes taken priority over his profession. “There have been weeks and even months when I've played more golf than tennis.”

Golf has become a significant hobby for the Spaniard, providing an outlet away from the demands of professional tennis.

Alcaraz's advice to young players as he continues in Shanghai

The most meaningful part of the exchange came when Etcheverry asked Alcaraz what he would tell a child who watches him and dreams of becoming a professional tennis player. The Spaniard responded by encouraging young people to pursue their ambitions without allowing other people's doubts to dictate what they believe they can achieve.

“Always dream big," the 7-time Grand Slam champion said. "Don't be afraid to talk about your dream and pursue it. Don't let yourself be influenced by what people tell you you can or cannot do. Go for it, and above all, enjoy the journey.”

The message reflects an approach Alcaraz has often expressed throughout his career: talent and results matter, but enjoying the process is equally important. His rise to the top of the sport has made him a role model for aspiring players, and his response offered a personal message rather than a technical lesson about tennis.

The conversation also highlighted the relationship between Alcaraz and Etcheverry, who have faced each other on the ATP Tour. Their only tour-level meeting came in the round of 16 at Monte Carlo in April, when Alcaraz won 6-1, 4-6, 6-3.

Read also

Etcheverry, reached a career-high ranking of world No. 25 in May 2026 and made the quarterfinals of Roland Garros in 2023. Although his Shanghai campaign ended early, his vlog provides a different perspective on life on tour, with conversations that show the players beyond their results.

For Alcaraz, meanwhile, the immediate focus returns to the court. After winning the Tokyo title and starting strongly in Shanghai, he has an opportunity to continue building momentum. His exchange with Etcheverry offered a reminder that, away from the pressure of competing for titles, even one of the world's leading tennis players makes time for a favourite hobby—and occasionally plays more of it than the sport itself.

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

See author's posts

claps 0visitors 0

“I've never fought anyone in my life”: Daniil Medvedev opens up after Beijing disqualification

Shanghai Masters 2026: Results, Draw, Entry List, Prize Money and History