Carlos Alcaraz added an unexpected detour to his Laver Cup preparations this week with a widely shared visit to one of America’s most infamous landmarks, the Alcatraz prison. His stop ignited chatter across social platforms, where Eugenie Bouchard joined the conversation with a lighthearted tease.

In turn, Alcaraz offered a short, enigmatic reply that has fueled speculation about his next move, though its true meaning remains shrouded in mystery.

How Did Carlos Alcaraz Respond to Eugenie Bouchard’s Playful Message?

This week, the 22-year-old world No. 1 slipped away from practice sessions in San Francisco to explore Alcatraz Island, long a symbol of high-security confinement. He toured the aging cell blocks and posed beneath rusted bars, later sharing images and a pun that linked his name to the legendary prison.

Shortly after, the viral post drew a playful comment from retired Canadian star Bouchard, whose social profile has stayed active since she stepped away from competition. Her cheeky message hinted at having anticipated this very moment.

I waited so long for this https://t.co/oGDAjflS4K

— Genie Bouchard (@geniebouchard) September 18, 2025

Hours later, Alcaraz replied with a brief statement and an eye emoji, stopping just short of explaining his intent. He wrote,

“The time has come👀.”

The time has come 👀 https://t.co/RZ19zn6Usy

— Carlos Alcaraz (@carlosalcaraz) September 20, 2025

Fans now wonder if his response is pure jest or a clue about something on the horizon, perhaps linked to his upcoming matches.

While Alcaraz’s visit offered a break from tennis routines, the light-hearted exchange underlines his growing ability to engage fans off the court. Whether his cryptic words foreshadow an announcement or are simply part of friendly banter, they add an intriguing subplot as the Laver Cup proceeds.

How Did Bouchard Attract the Tennis World’s Attention Recently?

Bouchard arrived at the Laver Cup’s opening night in style, marking her first major appearance since retiring this summer. The former world No. 5 turned heads in a bold red dress by BOSS, sharing how she preserved its flawless look en route to San Francisco.

Bouchard first made her mark in 2014, becoming the first Canadian woman to reach a Wimbledon final and climbing to No. 5 in the world rankings. She earned multiple national awards and twice advanced to Grand Slam semifinals. After battling injuries and form dips, she retired following the Canadian Open, where she bowed out in the second round.

Since stepping away from the singles tour, Bouchard has stayed active in sport, even breaking into pickleball’s top 20 this year. Her presence at the Laver Cup underscores her continued connection to tennis and her ability to blend sporting insight with personal flair.

As a commentator and ambassador, she brings both experience and charisma to the event, further enriching the atmosphere in San Francisco.