Golf with Federer – how do players spend days off?

Carlos Alcaraz Balances Australian Open Ambitions With Golfing Time Alongside Roger Federer

At this year’s Australian Open, Carlos Alcaraz is chasing something that would cement his place among tennis immortals. The Spaniard has arrived in Melbourne with one clear objective: to complete the career Grand Slam and add another historic chapter to his already glittering résumé. Yet, despite the enormity of the task ahead, tennis has not been the only thing occupying his thoughts during the tournament.

Away from the bright lights of Rod Laver Arena and the intensity of Grand Slam competition, Alcaraz has been finding moments to relax by indulging in another sporting passion—golf. The six-time major champion revealed that on his off-days, he has been spending time on the fairways, using the sport as a way to unwind and reset mentally during the demanding fortnight in Australia.

Following his impressive second-round victory over Germany’s Yannick Hanfmann, Alcaraz spoke openly about how he balances the pressures of elite tennis with moments of downtime. The top seed secured a 7-6 (7-4), 6-3, 6-2 win, showing composure in the opening set before asserting his dominance as the match progressed.

When asked whether he had managed to sneak in any rounds of golf during the tournament, Alcaraz answered with a grin.

“I’ve already played,” he said. “We can always find time to play some golf.”

For Alcaraz, golf has become more than just a casual hobby. Over the past few years, it has developed into a key part of his routine, offering a different kind of challenge and a welcome mental break from the relentless demands of professional tennis. The slower pace, technical precision, and strategic thinking required on the golf course provide a stark contrast to the explosive athleticism and intensity of his main sport.

But what truly caught the attention of fans was Alcaraz’s revelation that one of his recent golf partners was none other than Roger Federer.

The Spaniard spoke glowingly about the experience of playing alongside the 20-time Grand Slam champion, describing Federer’s golfing ability with the same admiration typically reserved for his legendary tennis career.

“His golf is as beautiful as his tennis,” Alcaraz said. “It’s unbelievable. Everything he does, he does with style. It’s really beautiful to watch.”

Federer, who retired from professional tennis in 2022, has taken up golf more seriously in recent years. According to Alcaraz, the Swiss legend has been playing the sport for around two years—and has already reached an impressive level.

“He’s been playing for two years now and his level is really good,” Alcaraz added. “I’ve been playing for five years, and he’s already beaten me.”

The comments offered a glimpse into the continued bond between generations of tennis greats, with Federer remaining a source of inspiration and admiration for today’s stars even after stepping away from the court. For Alcaraz, sharing a round of golf with one of his idols is both a privilege and a reminder of the legacy he hopes to continue building.

While golf provides a welcome escape, Alcaraz’s primary focus remains firmly on his Australian Open campaign. The 22-year-old is chasing history by attempting to become one of the youngest players ever to complete the career Grand Slam. Victory in Melbourne would place him in an exclusive group of legends who have won all four major titles at least once.

His performance against Hanfmann demonstrated both patience and maturity. After navigating a tight opening set that went to a tie-break, Alcaraz raised his level, finding depth on his groundstrokes and using his speed to control rallies. As the match wore on, his confidence grew, and he closed out the contest efficiently in straight sets.

Observers have noted how Alcaraz’s ability to relax away from the court has played a key role in his rapid rise. Unlike many players who struggle to switch off during major tournaments, he embraces activities that help him maintain balance—whether that’s golf, spending time with his team, or enjoying light-hearted moments off court.

This mindset has helped him handle the pressures that come with being one of the sport’s biggest stars at such a young age. Already a multiple Grand Slam champion, Alcaraz continues to show maturity beyond his years, both in how he approaches competition and how he manages his time away from it.

His admiration for Federer also reflects a deep respect for the traditions and history of the sport. While Alcaraz is forging his own path with an explosive and modern style of play, he remains conscious of the champions who came before him and the standards they set.

As the tournament progresses, Alcaraz will face increasingly difficult challenges. Each round brings tougher opponents, higher stakes, and greater physical and mental demands. Conserving energy and staying mentally fresh will be crucial if he is to go all the way.

For now, however, the Spaniard seems to have found the right balance—combining relentless competitiveness on court with moments of relaxation off it. Whether it’s hitting forehands under the Melbourne sun or teeing off on a nearby golf course, Alcaraz appears comfortable in his routine.

And if his words are any indication, even a friendly loss to Roger Federer on the golf course is a small price to pay for sharing time with one of the sport’s greatest figures.

As Alcaraz continues his quest for Australian Open glory, fans will be watching closely—not just to see whether he can make history, but to witness the ongoing evolution of a player who already looks at ease carrying the weight of expectation.

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