While the tennis world is buzzing over this current appearance at the U.S. Open, Carlos Alcaraz knows that his strength, power and athletic achievements are a result of hard training and strict routine. As the reigning French Open champion seeks another U.S. Open title, his post-match food choice is one that anyone can emulate.
Alcaraz is considered one of the world’s best tennis players. With powerful groundstrokes and a strong all-court game, the Spainard can make quick work of his opponent or have an epic five-set match. At this year’s French Open, Alcaraz and Jacob Skinner battled in a five-hour, 29-minute final, which is the longest in the Open Era. After those matches, Alcaraz has a food routine that helps prepare him for the next opponent.
What Foods Help Carlos Alcaraz Recover After a Grueling Five-Set Match?
Anyone who has watched a tennis match has seen players sip on drinks or eat a banana during change overs. Even Coco Gauff pulled out a fruit salad during a match. While those carb-centric snacks offer quick fuel during those sets, Alcaraz turns to another choice when he gets off the court.
In an interview with Men’s Journal he mentioned that protein-focused options are key to his post-match recovery. He appreciates easy, convenient choices, like an OIKOS protein shake or Mixed Berry OIKOS Pro.
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Even though Alcaraz has modified his food plan over the years, he understands that food impacts his performance. He admitted that there can be an occasional cheat day, but he understands the importance of food as fuel. That scenario is clear in a longer Grand Slam tournament.
“Tennis matches can last multiple hours—trust me, I know from experience! And major tournaments can run for 2 weeks. Nutrition can make a big difference,’ he said.
How Does Carlos Alcaraz Maintain His Strength During a Long Tennis Tournament?
Although he has not yet faced a long match at the 2025 U.S. Open, Alcaraz understands that training, nutrition choices and a positive mindset are all factors in his success. He revealed to Men’s Journal that strength has many components.
Oikos
“It’s about many things including mindset, recovery and of course putting the right things into your body at the right time. Discipline and resilience have played a big role in my career and having a ‘never give up’ attitude is going to help you no matter what the challenge is that is put in front of you. It is important to find ways to incorporate healthy habits.”
While few people may ever experience Alcaraz’s tennis success, they can adapt his protein-packed, post-match food choices. That fuel could be the first step to mimicking his agile baseline moves and offer the speedy recovery that people crave.
