It’s the small things in life that matter. For Carlos Alcaraz, the excitement is palpable as he steps into the third round of the Australian Open to face Nuno Borges at Rod Laver Arena. He aims to clinch his first Australian Open title this year, adding to his impressive collection of four Grand Slam trophies, including two Wimbledon titles, one French Open, and one US Open. However, there’s something that surely makes him smile brighter than hoisting a trophy over his head.

Before the match, the players participated in the customary coin toss to set their initial conditions of play. As they approached the net, they were greeted by John, one of the Hotshots Kids, who was there to kick off the event. The Australian Open is part of Tennis Australia’s Tennis Hot Shots, which introduces children aged 5 to 12 to tennis in a fun way. This initiative uses modified equipment and smaller courts, making it easier for young players to learn and enjoy the sport.

As John asked his question, “AO or John?” Alcaraz chose “AO,” and the coin landed in his favor. John’s excitement was infectious as he exclaimed, “It’s AO!” Tennis journalist Jose Morgado reshared the video of this moment on X, calling it “one of the cutest moments of the tournament.” The commentators also enjoyed this heartwarming scene as John stepped between the players for a photo before happily skipping off the court and waving to the crowd. They remarked, “What a star, John is!”

In the end, Alcaraz clinched the match with a 6-2, 6-4, 6-7, 6-2 win. However, his interaction with little John is certainly a highlight of the day. Not just today, but he has consistently shown his affection for kids at matches in the past.

Carlos Alcaraz’s heartwarming gesture towards young kids

Alcaraz kicked off his professional tennis career in 2018 at just 15 years old and made waves with his ATP tour debut at the Rio Open in February 2020. Fans have enjoyed watching him grow from a small, scrawny kid into a powerful 21-year-old capable of jaw-dropping shots. His love for tennis began at age four, inspired by his dad and idol Rafael Nadal, with whom he not only took a picture before turning pro but also shared the court during Nadal’s farewell match at the 2024 Davis Cup. So it’s safe to say he knows a thing or two about being a young boy with a dream.

Ahead of the 2025 season, the Spaniard has been ramping up his training, having marathon practice sessions that lasted over three hours! With all the buzz around him after his Grand Slam victories, young fans—especially kids—have been lining up outside practice courts in Spain just to catch a glimpse of him. Normally, he loves to sign autographs for them after practice. But after that intense session, he had to dash to the changing room without signing. Not wanting to let his fans down, he surprised them by gifting the tennis balls he used during practice and signed a few autographs too. What a legend!

This isn’t the first time Alcaraz has charmed his young fans. Earlier this year at the Cincinnati Open, a crowd of eager supporters rushed him for autographs after a match, causing some to push little kids aside. Alcaraz quickly stepped in and said, “Guys there are kids. There are kids in front alright. Don’t push alright.” It’s clear he brings that “big brother” vibe, always looking out for the younger ones in the stands. What a guy!