Breathing better can make all the difference in sports.
From tennis to football, including skiing… nasal strips are increasingly seen on athletes' faces.
Discover how Carlos Alcaraz, Santiago Giménez, Rafael Leão, Kenan Yildiz and Casper Ruud use them, and why these small accessories are part of their routine.

1. Carlos Alcaraz: the tennis player in search of oxygen

In-match use

Carlos Alcaraz, multiple Grand Slam champion, has been seen wearing a nasal strip during important tournaments.
He explains that it helps him breathe better, especially during periods of recovery after a cold.

Perceived benefits

• Improved recovery between points 🎾

• Smoother nasal breathing, even under pressure

• A much-appreciated “mental boost”

2. Santiago Giménez: the nasal patch that became a ritual

Origin of the habit

Santiago Giménez, the Feyenoord and Mexico striker, started wearing a nasal patch after a cold that blocked his breathing.
Since then, it has become a match ritual, both for comfort and superstition.

A valuable ally on the field

• Reduces respiratory fatigue

• Improved oxygenation in case of congestion

• Increased confidence in key moments

3. Rafael Leão: the contagious effect

The AC Milan striker was seen with a nasal patch similar to Giménez's.
Many fans speculated, but it seems it's indeed to breathe more during the game.
The "copy-paste" effect testifies to their champion mentality.

4. Kenan Yildiz: the mysterious lead

The young Turkish striker for Juventus, Kenan Yildiz, has also been spotted with a nasal strip.
Some speculate that he might be suffering from slight nasal discomfort or post-operative irritation.
But the "breathing better" effect is clear: better breathing aids performance.

5. Casper Ruud: Norwegian air tested in tournaments

A recovery tip

Casper Ruud made a splash at the Dallas Open and other tournaments with his black nasal strip.
He even explained:

“I use it to sleep and breathe better, it gives me a few more percent of oxygen.”

Observed advantages

• More effective nasal breathing in matches

• Better oxygenation, less fatigue

• A “gadget” that offers real mental and physical comfort

6. 📣 The trend: champions inspire

After seeing Alcaraz and Ruud wear them in public, many athletes followed suit.
Even the media and forums are relaying the phenomenon:

• This trick has brought nasal strips back into fashion

• On social media, topics like #nasalstrips or #breathebetter are exploding

Why do these champions adopt nasal strips?

1. Ease of use

• Quick to apply

• No loss of comfort

• Compatible with training and matches

2. Optimized nasal breathing

• Less air resistance

• Better oxygen flow

• Better recovery between efforts

3. Mental effect (welcome placebo)

• Feeling of control

• Confidence in preparation

• The small details that make a difference

What to remember for your own performance?

Try during training

• Start with a match or session

• Note the effects on endurance and recovery

Adopt for the night

• Athletes like Ruud use it to sleep better

• Bonus: reduction of snoring and better recovery

Supplement with other good practices

• Regular hydration

• Controlled breathing

• Quality sleep

Conclusion

Nasal strips are much more than a gadget: they are a simple, effective tool used by Carlos Alcaraz, Santiago Giménez, Rafael Leão, Kenan Yildiz, Casper Ruud, and many others.
Whether to improve oxygenation, relieve congestion, or add a little mental edge, they are an integral part of champions' routines.

👉 If you want to experience this respiratory performance, discover our Fresh Flow range.

Breathe better. Perform more.