After attending a bullfighting event in Spain, Carlos Alcaraz is being called out on social media by animal rights group PETA and other fans.
Bullfighting is not the greatest thing in the world for bulls, but it's a staple of Spanish culture. It's nicknamed the national fiesta in Spain and has been part of the culture for centuries. The practice spread to other countries that were historically linked to Spain, but its popularity has dwindled since then in most of those countries.
Its popularity has also wavered across Spain but is still strong in the Madrid region and to the south of the country. Alcaraz comes from Murcia, a region where bullfighting isn't that popular, but it's not banned either so events to happen.
One of those happened in his hometown of Murcia recently, and Alcaraz was present at the event, with plenty of backlash coming his way. While it might seem foreign to most people, it's deeply embedded in Spanish culture and a sense of pride for the country, even though support for it is rather low among younger generations.
Alcaraz seemed to have enjoyed the experience, but he's being called out by animal rights groups such as PETA and plenty of fans who find the practice brutal. It's not the kindest practice for bulls, but it's a cultural norm with which you can agree or disagree.
"Tennis is a sport, animal abuse is not. Carlos, reject this cruelty! Tell us that you'll never go to another bullfight."
Alcaraz hasn't responded to criticism yet and likely won't because he generally doesn't talk much outside of tennis. He's also been relatively safe from any controversies up until recently, with this likely being his first rodeo.
Some of the fan reactions describe it as the 'most scandalous public appearance', claiming that his presence endorses this specific 'tyrannical' activity. Many would have preferred him to be in Valencia playing for Spain in the Davis Cup, but he withdrew a few days ago.
0 Comments