The influence of Carlos Alcaraz keeps growing beyond match courts and trophies. The Spanish sensation’s rise from junior prodigy to global icon has now inspired one of tennis’ biggest manufacturers to invest directly in the sport’s future – children picking up a racket for the first time.

That vision materializes in the new junior-focused collection from Babolat. Timed with the release of the ninth-generation Pure Aero, the signature frame used by the world No. 1, the brand has introduced the Carlitos Junior range, aimed at children aged 4 to 13.

The line includes five beginner racket sizes tailored to young physiques, along with a dedicated equipment bag. With visual learning markers, adapted grips, and simplified string patterns, the design focuses on helping kids develop proper strokes while enjoying the game, all while feeling connected to their idol.

The idea isn’t random. Babolat has historically backed talent early in their journeys, supporting Alcaraz from age 10 and previously nurturing legends like Rafael Nadal during childhood. The company’s long-term ambition is simple: the next future champion might hit their first tennis ball in 2026 using a Carlitos racket.

Carlos Alcaraz signed his first deal with Babolat in Spain at just 10 years old, joined the international team at 13, and within a decade climbed to world No. 1 while collecting Grand Slam success. He used the Pure Aero for nearly nine years before switching in 2021 to the Pure Aero 98 for greater precision.

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By 19, he captured the US Open, becoming the youngest world No. 1 in history, a breakthrough that cemented his prodigy status. The following season, he continued his dominance at the Wimbledon Championships, shortly after extending his partnership with Babolat through 2030.

“For more than 10 years now, Babolat experts have been constantly working closely with me to provide the best tennis equipment for my performance… extending this long-term partnership makes total sense,” Alcaraz said.

Company CEO Eric Babolat echoed the sentiment, praising the Spaniard’s attitude, creativity, and sportsmanship as reasons he connects with young fans worldwide:

“For us, sport is not just about success but about attitude and values. Carlitos Alcaraz is a great role model who shares our values: ‘no gut, no glory,’ and he is such an inspiration for the younger generation and for all tennis fans… His positive energy, on-court creativity, great sportsmanship, and pure enjoyment when playing tennis really connect with everyone.”

The Carlitos range continues a philosophy the brand has been testing for years: designing equipment specifically around children rather than shrinking adult rackets. As an example of its previous developmental programs, in May 2023, the brand gave thirty children the opportunity of a lifetime when Toni Nadal taught them how to become champions while playing with Carlos Alcaraz and Dominic Thiem.

Now, by blending education, ergonomics, and star appeal, the company hopes the emotional connection to Alcaraz will make tennis less intimidating for beginners and more aspirational for kids. All of this arrives while Alcaraz continues setting the tone on Tour.

The Spaniard has opened his season with a commanding title-winning run in Melbourne, and now he’s continuing that in Doha as well.

Carlos Alcaraz gets off to a winning start at the 2026 Qatar Open

Fresh off scripting history at the Australian Open, Carlos Alcaraz wasted no time carrying that momentum into the Middle East. The world No. 1 opened his campaign at the Qatar Open with a straight-sets victory, defeating Arthur Rinderknech 6-4, 7-6(5).

The 22-year-old had to work for it. After controlling large parts of the opening set, Alcaraz found himself under heavy pressure late in the second, saving two set points before edging a tight tie-break. The one-hour and 47-minute win marked his 150th hard-court victory on tour and stretched his unbeaten start to the 2026 season to 8-0.

“It was really difficult,” Alcaraz said after his win. “Arthur is a really dangerous player. Nobody wants to play against him in the first round… I’m happy with the level. I’m happy that I got through difficult moments in the match. I’m happy that I stayed calm [and] positive and played great tennis.”

While power remains a core part of Alcaraz’s game, finesse stole the show in Doha. The Spaniard now looks to improve on last year’s debut in Doha, where he fell in the quarterfinals to Jiří Lehečka. Alcaraz has been handed a tricky draw this year. His next opponent will be fellow Frenchman Valentin Royer. This will be his first meeting with the 24-year-old Frenchman. And if Carlos Alcaraz wins this match, he may cross paths with the former champion Karen Khachanov (2024) in the QF.

Do you think Alcaraz can keep his winning streak intact and win the title in Doha? Share your thoughts in the comment box.