Inside the Exclusive World of Julien Farel’s U.S. Open Pop-Up Salon: Where Style Meets Performance
Behind the Scenes at the U.S. Open: Julien Farel’s Exclusive Players Lounge
New York, NY — As the U.S. Open enters its fourth day, a hidden gem on the tournament grounds is buzzing with energy: the exclusive players lounge, where renowned French hairstylist Julien Farel and his team of expert stylists are hard at work. This year marks the 17th anniversary of Farel’s pop-up salon, a sanctuary for players seeking to look and feel their best on the court.
Farel, who has a permanent salon on the Upper East Side, shares, “It took me five years to get the contract.” His passion for both hairstyling and sports is evident as he recounts his childhood dreams of becoming a professional soccer player. “When I do sports, I don’t feel like I’m working, and when I do hair, I don’t feel like I’m working,” he explains.
In the world of tennis, where personal style and athletic performance are increasingly intertwined, Farel’s services are in high demand. On the first day of the Open, every appointment was booked within just 15 minutes. “They’re always on camera. They want to look good,” he notes, emphasizing the importance of haircare in a sport where appearance can impact confidence.
Farel’s approach to hairstyling is both artistic and practical. He likens himself to an architect, balancing form and function to create looks that are visually appealing yet convenient for players. “It’s different from a haircut for a fashion show,” he explains. “Playing tennis, it’s their job to win each match. I have to make sure the hair looks good when they’re not playing, but it has to be convenient when they are.”
The salon has become a pre- or post-match ritual for many players. Tennis legend Rafael Nadal famously debuted a dramatic haircut from Farel in 2010, which coincided with his victory at the men’s singles championship. “I was a good-luck charm,” Farel quips. Similarly, 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic is known to sneak in for a trim just before matches, exuding calm and confidence.
This year, the buzz is all about Carlos Alcaraz, the 22-year-old world No. 2, who arrived with a buzz cut after a botched trim by his brother. “I was scheduled to cut Carlos, and my flight was delayed,” Farel admits. “His brother took care of it.” The new look, while practical, has sparked conversations about trends among male players opting for similar styles.
Farel’s pop-up salon is not just about aesthetics; it also serves as a space for players to unwind and clear their heads before stepping onto the court. Grand Slam champion Coco Gauff recently indulged in an Hermès pedicure at the salon, highlighting the blend of beauty and wellness that Farel prioritizes.
As the tournament progresses, Farel continues to greet each player with a warm smile and a nod, embodying the supportive atmosphere that his salon provides. With a mix of artistry, practicality, and a touch of good luck, Julien Farel’s pop-up salon remains a vital part of the U.S. Open experience, proving that looking good can indeed play a role in performing well.
