Carlos Alcaraz wins the US Open, but taxes steal part of the prize

Carlos Alcaraz conquered New York once again. The Spaniard claimed the 2025 US Open title after defeating Jannik Sinner in four sets (6-2, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4). That marked his second Grand Slam win of the year and reinforced his dominance over the Italian, whom he’s beaten four out of five times this season. But while Alcaraz lifted the most coveted trophy in tennis. Another opponent was already waiting. None other than the U.S. tax system.

According to figures published by the British outlet Express, Carlos Alcaraz earned the largest payout in Grand Slam history. $5 million (around £3.7 million). However, due to U.S. tax laws, the player from Murcia will only take home a little over half of that amount. As a top-bracket earner, he’ll owe 37% in federal taxes, which amounts to £1.37 million. If New York’s state tax—up to 9.65%—is also applied, his net earnings could drop to roughly £2 million.

A brilliant year for the Spaniard

Despite the tax hit, 2025 has been a stellar year for Carlos Alcaraz. So far, he’s racked up over £11.5 million in prize money, including his second consecutive Roland Garros title. Since turning pro in 2018, Alcaraz has earned close to £40 million on the ATP Tour. He’s now positioning himself as a serious contender to surpass Novak Djokovic’s all-time earnings record, which currently stands at £140 million.

Thanks to the tax treaty between Spain and the United States, Carlos Alcaraz won’t have to pay taxes on the same income back home. Still, that doesn’t account for other expenses—coaches, travel, accommodations, and team logistics—that also eat into his final take.

His next major challenge will be the ATP Finals in Turin, where Jannik Sinner earned £1.7 million in 2024. If Carlos Alcaraz manages to close out the season with another title, he won’t just solidify his spot at the top. He’ll prove that even when the taxman scores a break, he’s still serving aces.