At a Glance
- Carlos Alcaraz plans a new tattoo if he wins the 2026 Australian Open.
- He has a long-standing tradition of commemorating Grand Slam victories with ink.
- The design, a kangaroo, is set to join his growing collection of sports-related tattoos.
- Why it matters: The move underscores his unique way of celebrating milestones and signals a potential career Grand Slam.
The Spanish tennis star, 22, has announced that a new tattoo will be added to his arm if he clinches the 2026 Australian Open. The design, a kangaroo, will join his collection of ink that has grown since his first Grand Slam win in 2022. Alcaraz’s tradition of getting a new piece after each major victory has become a hallmark of his public persona.
Tattoo Tradition
Alcaraz’s first tattoo was a tribute to his 2022 US Open triumph. He inked the date 11.09.22 on the inside of his left elbow to mark becoming the youngest player to hold the No. 1 ATP ranking.
In 2023, after winning Wimbledon, he added a strawberry design on his right ankle. The tattoo was a nod to the tournament’s nickname, “The strawberries,” and was placed next to a previous design he received the year before.
The 2024 French Open added an Eiffel Tower to his arm. The monument was paired with the date he bested Alexander Zverev in five sets to win the Paris title.
Alcaraz’s 2025 US Open win brought two more pieces: the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge, both symbols of American freedom and resilience.
He has stated that he only receives ink after winning a major tournament for the first time, a rule he relaxed after his second US Open victory.
2026 Australian Open Plans
During the 2026 Australian Open, which runs from January 12 through February 1 at Melbourne Park, Alcaraz was filmed by the official Australian Open TikTok account. In the clip, he revealed the kangaroo design and discussed possible placement on his leg.
He pointed to two spots on his lower leg but could not show the exact location because the lower half was cut off in the video. He said, “I have a spot here and here, so I would think about it. I’m a righty, so maybe the right one… next to the Wimbledon one,” referring to his 2023 strawberry tattoo.
The decision to add a new tattoo is not taken lightly. Alcaraz said he discussed the idea with his parents to keep their nerves calm, noting that the tradition is part of his personal celebration.
Grand Slam Achievements
Alcaraz has won the following Grand Slam titles:
- 2023 and 2024 Wimbledon
- 2024 and 2025 French Open
- 2022 and 2025 US Open
He has yet to play a final at the Australian Open, making the 2026 edition his first opportunity to complete the career Grand Slam.
Career Grand Slam Potential
If Alcaraz wins the 2026 Australian Open, he will become the ninth men’s player to hold all four major titles in a career. He would also be the youngest to do so, surpassing Rafael Nadal’s record by nearly two years.
Alcaraz reflected on the significance, saying, “Completing the career Grand Slam is something amazing to do. To be the youngest [to have] done it before is even better,” according to ESPN.
The achievement would cement his status among the elite in tennis history and add another chapter to his tattoo story.
Match Schedule
Alcaraz faces Alex de Minaur in the fourth round of the quarterfinals on Tuesday, January 27. The 2026 Australian Open men’s final is scheduled for Sunday, February 1.
The tournament’s structure gives Alcaraz a clear path to the final if he maintains his current form and avoids injury.
Final Thoughts
The athlete’s approach to celebrating victories with ink reflects a personal ritual that has resonated with fans worldwide. It also highlights his confidence in pursuing the next milestone.
Key Takeaways
- Alcaraz’s tattoo tradition began after his 2022 US Open win.
- He plans a kangaroo design for a potential 2026 Australian Open victory.
- Winning the 2026 title would make him the youngest player to complete a career Grand Slam.
