Carlos Alcaraz has found a simple solution to the wardrobe issue that became one of the talking points of his opening matches at the 2026 US Open. The world No. 3 stepped onto Arthur Ashe Stadium for his third-round clash against Wu Yibing wearing a white undershirt beneath his Nike kit. It was a noticeable change from his earlier matches, when his loose-fitting, sleeveless brown top repeatedly slipped during rallies.
Alcaraz played his whole match today with his nipples out 🤯 pic.twitter.com/pIevjq7EYZ
— Chad B (@ChadBoisson) August 31, 2026
The outfit had become a talking point among fans online, with several clips and memes circulating on social media. Former WTA player Eugenie Bouchard also joined the conversation, jokingly telling Alcaraz that they needed to “put the nip away.”
She said on X, “Love you Carlos but we’ve got to put the nip away”.
Love you Carlos but we’ve got to put the nip away 🤭
— Genie Bouchard (@geniebouchard) August 31, 2026
Carlos Alcaraz Explains His US Open ‘Nipple’ Issue
After his 6-3, 6-4, 6-1 third-round victory, Alcaraz was asked about the sudden change in his outfit. The Spaniard responded with his humour.
“Well, I think I’ve been seeing too much of my nipples lately,” Alcaraz said with a laugh. “I figured I could cover them up for today’s match.”
Carlos Alcaraz on deciding to wear an undershirt today for his match at the U.S. Open
“I saw my nipple too much lately”
😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/xrZIt6nhv3
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 4, 2026
Alcaraz also confirmed that the decision to add the undershirt was entirely his and was not a request from Nike.
“No, it was my decision,” he said. “I wouldn’t have minded playing like that again, but if we can sort it out this way, it was good.”
The reactions when Carlos Alcaraz took off his shirt 😂 pic.twitter.com/NrK1Em440J
— Sophia (@_shesookenn) September 5, 2026
The 23-year-old admitted that the slipping shirt had become somewhat distracting during his previous matches. He added that he felt comfortable with the extra layer and intended to continue wearing it.
Eugenie Bouchard Reacts to Alcaraz’s New Outfit
Bouchard was quick to notice Alcaraz’s updated look. After seeing the Spaniard take to the court in the layered outfit, she posted a picture on social media alongside a halo-wearing smiley emoji and the words: “He listened.”
Carlos Alcaraz will now take on American star Tommy Paul in the round of 16 on September 6, Sunday.
