How Carlos Alcaraz protects his game on and off the court: the role of sun care in tennis

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Friday, 03 October 2025 at 16:38
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The heat of the sun is undoubtedly one of the most demanding adversaries for those who live tennis to the fullest. Both during matches and training sessions, players are exposed from early hours to UV radiation, heat, sweat, reflections from playing surfaces, and eye strain that can undermine not only their immediate performance but also their long-term health. In this context, sun protection is not an optional step but rather indispensable for those who seek to play well today and protect their skin tomorrow.

The risks players face in the sun

Prolonged exposure to the sun without adequate protection carries multiple risks:
  • Sunburn not only hurts but also reduces concentration and muscle recovery.
  • Cumulative skin damage, including premature aging, results in spots, loss of elasticity, and wrinkles.
  • The risk of skin cancer is much higher in those who practice outdoor sports.
  • Eye irritation and the effects of light reflection on the eyes and surrounding skin can affect vision during a critical point.
  • Oxidative stress from heat, UV radiation, high-energy visible light ("blue light"), and pollution, which hinders post-match recovery and can increase inflammation.

How professional players protect themselves

For those who compete at the highest level, managing these risks is part of their preparation. Carlos Alcaraz is a clear example of how an emerging athlete takes both practice and prevention seriously.
The "Fusion Water MAGIC by Alcaraz / The Alcaraz Formula" campaign with the ISDIN brand demonstrates its active commitment to raising awareness about the importance of sun protection, particularly in outdoor sports.
This ISDIN's face sunscreen, co-created with Alcaraz, is specifically designed to withstand the demands of intense physical activity: ultra-light texture, non-greasy, sweat-resistant, high protection against UV radiation, even against visible light and other factors such as pollution or extreme heat. In addition, it does not cause eye irritation, which is particularly important for players who are sweating and frequently look up at the sun's reflection on the court surfaces. This eye tolerance makes a practical difference in long matches.
Carlos Alcaraz, in addition to his power, speed, mental response, etc., incorporates these precautions into his daily routine: applying facial sunscreen before training, reapplying it when he sweats a lot or after rinsing his face, and using products that do not interfere with perspiration or intense light.

Lessons for amateurs and fans

What a professional like Alcaraz does may not be within everyone's reach, but we can learn and adapt many things:
  • Make sun protection part of your routine. Apply cream every morning, especially if you'll be outdoors for extended periods, not just during tournament play.
  • Choose a sunscreen that meets specific basic requirements: high SPF (30-50+), good UVA + UVB protection, sweat resistance, and no eye irritation. Avoid very oily products if you sweat a lot.
  • Reapply frequently: after intense sweating, drying your face with a towel, swimming, etc. Ideally, every 2 hours. Even during long matches.
  • Cover vulnerable areas, such as the face, neck, ears, and scalp, if you don't have a hat. You can also wear caps, visors, and UV-protective clothing.
  • Keep your skin hydrated and aid recovery with showers, gentle cleansers, moisturizers, and antioxidant-rich foods.
  • Be aware of environmental conditions that aggravate sun exposure, such as altitude, sun reflections (on hard courts, cement, clay), humidity, and heat.

The importance of the sunshade

Modern tennis is no longer just about physical strength, technique, or mental strategy. It's also about discipline and attention to every detail. Carlos Alcaraz shows that talent alone is not enough to win in the long term: you need responsibility, consistency, and smart protection.
Adopting facial sun protection as an essential part of any tennis player's equipment can make the difference between playing with discomfort, fatigue, or even skin injuries, and playing with confidence, concentration, and well-being. Whether you're a fan, an amateur player, or simply someone who spends hours outdoors, you can start applying these measures today. Your skin will thank you for your efforts. So will your performance.
The message is clear: skin care is not a fad, but another aspect of the modern game. Even among colleagues on the circuit, there are jokes about who applies the most sunscreen, as happened when Daniil Medvedev asked Cameron Norrie if he wasn't “putting on more and more” cream during a tournament.
Behind the humor is a solemn reminder: protecting your skin allows you to compete with confidence today and preserve your health tomorrow.
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