If Julien Farel’s flight had been on time, Carlos Alcaraz might have retained his luxurious mop of hair. Farel, a renowned French stylist known for his celebrity clientele, was scheduled to cut Alcaraz’s hair but faced an unexpected delay. The young Spanish tennis star’s brother stepped in to handle the grooming, resulting in a notably short buzz cut after a mishap with the clippers. Alcaraz, reflecting on the experience, accepted the new look with a positive attitude, suggesting that the abrupt change wasn’t entirely a negative one.
American tennis player Frances Tiafoe, however, had a more critical view of Alcaraz’s unexpected haircut. While he expressed support for his friend, he humorously deemed the new look “horrible,” wanting to highlight the drastic transformation. Tiafoe jested about Alcaraz’s aerodynamic appearance, turning the incident into a lighthearted moment amidst the competitive atmosphere of the US Open. Alcaraz’s humorous acceptance of the situation showed his resilience in navigating the pressures of elite sport, even when faced with a less-than-ideal personal appearance.
Farel took a more generous stance on Alcaraz’s new style, praising his brother’s efforts and assuring that it was beneficial for the young athlete. As a high-profile stylist, Farel commands a staggering $1,250 per haircut at his exclusive salons in New York and Palm Beach. During the US Open, he sets up a pop-up salon in Arthur Ashe Stadium, offering complimentary grooming services to players, coaches, and VIPs. This unique initiative caters to the busy schedules of athletes, allowing them to take quick breaks and unwind as they prepare for their matches.
In past events, Farel has styled several top players, including Novak Djokovic and Naomi Osaka, blending his expertise with a pinch of superstition. After cutting Rafael Nadal’s hair in 2010, Nadal won the tournament, leading Farel to jokingly consider himself a good luck charm for athletes. Beyond mere aesthetics, these grooming sessions create a stress-relieving environment where players can feel at ease before high-stakes matches. Farel emphasizes that the unique experience of the salon serves as a relaxation getaway amidst the rigorous demands of professional tennis.
Farel, himself a tennis enthusiast, highlighted Djokovic’s laid-back attitude regarding grooming. The Serbian player is known to request a haircut just an hour before his matches, demonstrating confidence in managing his time effectively. “He’s so relaxed and doesn’t rush you,” said Farel, marveling at Djokovic’s fearless approach. This level of calmness under pressure might be a key factor in Djokovic’s exceptional performance on the court, showcasing the mental resilience that parallels grooming with the players’ athletic careers.
Ultimately, Farel’s pop-up salon represents both a luxury and a unique service for athletes at the US Open. With about 500 people being styled over two weeks, the cramped schedule creates an atmosphere buzzing with energy and camaraderie. The players depend on these visits for more than just haircuts; it’s about creating spaces that promote mental well-being, allowing the athletes to unwind from the high-pressure world of competitive tennis. Whether it’s a fresh cut or a quick blowout, Farel’s salon has become an integral part of the players’ experiences at the tournament, further enhancing the spirit of the event.
