Real Madrid's vinegar shot for cramps divides athletes and science
A growing number of top athletes and football clubs, including Real Madrid and tennis stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev, are turning to vinegar-based drinks to combat muscle cramps. Real Madrid's anti-cramp solution, made with apple cider vinegar, has gained attention, but its effectiveness remains debated. While players like Alcaraz and Medvedev also use similar remedies, experts stress that these drinks don't actually stop cramps at their source.
Real Madrid's anti-cramp drink includes apple cider vinegar, sodium, potassium, vitamins, zinc, and occasionally dill. A photographer who sampled it compared the taste to pickle juice, noting that some players struggle to finish the shot. Despite the unpleasant flavour, the drink is believed to work through a neurological reflex triggered in the mouth and throat rather than preventing muscle contractions directly.
Other high-profile athletes, including tennis stars Alcaraz, Medvedev, and Frances Tiafoe, have adopted similar vinegar-based solutions. However, no public statements confirm their use during competitions or training. The drinks are marketed as quick fixes, but they don't replace proper hydration, nutrition, or conditioning.
Experts recommend managing fatigue, staying hydrated, and eating balanced meals to prevent cramps. Bananas, rich in potassium, are often suggested as a natural alternative. While vinegar drinks may offer temporary relief, they remain a supplementary option rather than a proven solution.
The trend of vinegar-based anti-cramp drinks continues among elite athletes, though their benefits are limited. Real Madrid's remedy, along with those used by tennis professionals, highlights a broader search for quick fixes in sports. For lasting prevention, athletes still rely on hydration, diet, and training over vinegar shots.
