$200,000 for a Racket? Alcaraz's Wimbledon Instrument Ignites the Market
It stopped Djokovic and earned him his second Grand Slam title. Now, Carlos Alcaraz's racket, used during his legendary victory at Wimbledon, could shatter all records.
When a 20-year-old player overthrows a legend on the world's most mythical court, the consequences extend beyond the borders of sport. On July 16, 2023, Carlos Alcaraz defeated Novak Djokovic in five sets during an epic final at Wimbledon.
Today, the Babolat racket used that day is on track to become the most expensive tennis item ever sold at auction, with an estimate nearing $200,000. This is how "Prestige Memorabilia," the company in charge of the sale, describes this extremely rare piece.
It was used ten times during the 2023 grass season, notably during the final against Djokovic. Signed by Alcaraz, it retains all its original elements: custom grip, and even signs of use.
Since the auction launched on September 30, the racket has already reached $21,437, but experts expect a surge in bids by October 19, the closing date. The previous record is held by a Rafael Nadal racket from Roland-Garros 2017, sold for $157,000. But by all estimates, Alcaraz's instrument is expected to surpass it.
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