Carlos Alcaraz nets seven-figure fee, sharp in windy Doha practice ahead of opener
World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz arrives in Doha with both form and finances looking healthy. The Spanish star has been handed a lucrative appearance payment for taking part in the ATP 500 event and closed out a polished practice session in blustery conditions as he prepares to begin his title defence.
Million-dollar incentive lifts the purse beyond prize money
An Italian investigation into event payments found that both Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner received roughly $1. 2 million each for appearing at the Doha ATP 500. That sum is described as a compensation for services that high-profile players can be offered at ATP 250 and 500 events. For context, the Doha champion's prize money stands at $529, 945 while the runner-up would receive $285, 095 — meaning the appearance fee each player collected is roughly double the winner's cheque.
The payment underlines how tournaments outside Masters 1000 and Grand Slam level can still attract the game's biggest names by combining traditional prize money with discretionary professional fees. Doha has invested heavily in its event in recent decades and was elevated to ATP 500 status starting in 2025, a move that has reinforced its ability to secure top-ranked entrants.
On-court tune-up: handling wind, temperature swings and fans
On the court at the Khalifa International Complex, Alcaraz completed a brisk hour-long session alongside Stefanos Tsitsipas on the Grandstand, finishing with a practice scoreline that read 6-3, 2-0 when they wrapped. Wind was a clear factor during the session; team members studied the forecast ahead of Alcaraz's opening match to plan for gusts that routinely affect shots at this venue.
Alcaraz, 22, commented on the local conditions, noting the sharp shifts between daytime heat and cooler evenings that can complicate preparations. The world No. 1 also paused to sign autographs and pose for photos with supporters for roughly 10 minutes after practice, underscoring his status as a crowd favourite in the Qatari capital.
The Spaniard works with coach Samuel López and leaves the training ground encouraged by how his game translated to match-style hitting under challenging conditions. The focus now turns to adapting those practice reps into a clean start when the tournament's main draw begins.
Match path and what to watch in Doha
The ATP 500 in Doha runs Feb. 16–21 (all dates ET). Alcaraz is scheduled to open his campaign against Arthur Rinderknech in the tournament's first round. If he clears that hurdle, a matchup with Valentin Royer awaits, a Frenchman who has shown strong form with recent straight-set wins.
Beyond the immediate opponents, watchers will be monitoring how Alcaraz manages conditions and court time heading into deeper rounds. Wind and temperature swings can favour players who vary trajectory and pace, and Alcaraz's preparation with a top rival in Tsitsipas gives him a direct rehearsal against elite ball-strikers.
Financially and competitively, Doha represents a valuable early-season test: a significant payout that eases the monetary calculus for star players, and an ATP 500 field that now routinely includes many of the planet's best. For Alcaraz, the combination of a big appearance fee and a confident practice session sets a high bar for what could be a compelling week in Qatar.
