Why do athletes reach for pickle juice?

AMA bannerTennis star Carlos Alcaraz was captured swigging pickle juice during his Australian Open semi-final match against Alexander Zverev - but why?

The Spaniard received treatment for cramp during a medical timeout, but his condition seemed to improve in the fourth set after a taste of the liquid.

For many athletes, pickle juice has become a staple.

Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner were both seen sipping at what was thought to be pickle juice during the 2025 French Open final.

But seeing athletes reaching for the salty remedy isn't anything new.

Former Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira was pictured drinking it back in 2019, and it also became part of the England team's strategy to combat cramp in…