“The Carlos Effect” is real: Macci credits Alcaraz for changing clay-court tactics

Former Serena Williams’ coach Rick Macci has anticipated a major tactical shift during the clay swing, driven by none other than Carlos Alcaraz. The American believes the Spaniard’s playing style may have influenced his rivals’ strategies, especially considering his success on clay last year.

Alcaraz has undoubtedly captured the spotlight since breaking through on the ATP Tour in 2021, reaching the Top 30 at just 18 years old and winning his first Grand Slam at the 2022 US Open aged 19. Yet he’s shown himself to be a true all-court player, with eight clay titles to his name – including two Madrid Open Masters 1000s (2022, 2023) and the 2024 French Open.

During last year’s European clay swing, he played only in Madrid (quarterfinals) and Roland Garros (champion), along with the 2024 Olympic Games, where he earned the silver medal. He posted an impressive 15–2 record on clay, despite competing in just three tournaments on the surface after the Sunshine Double.

Commenting on this, Rick Macci noted that Alcaraz’s success is likely shaping how others approach the game, and that fans should expect a tactical trend this year: “Look for an eye-popping ATP RECORD of drop shots during the dirt season. Reasons for the Dropper to come out of the Hopper,” he wrote.

“1. Players now have this in the front pocket because of the CARLOS EFFECT. 2. The balls, sticks, strings and athlete in long rallies help you live another day — so the drop changes the channel to make you pay.”

Macci, who coached Grand Slam champions Andy Roddick and Serena Williams, believes this will be a key pattern during the coming weeks. The Monte-Carlo Masters kicks off this Monday as the first major clay tournament of the season — the first of three ATP Masters 1000 events on the surface — before the swing culminates at Roland Garros, where Alcaraz arrives as the defending champion.