Carlos Alcaraz has confirmed a split from long-time coach Juan Carlos Ferrero. The decision ends one of the sport’s most successful modern partnerships.
At just 22, the six-time Grand Slam champion has worked with Ferrero since his mid-teens. However, both parties agreed to separate ahead of the 2026 season.
Notably, neither Alcaraz nor Ferrero offered a clear explanation for the decision. Still, sources suggest the former world number one was unwilling to step aside. In a heartfelt statement, Alcaraz focused on gratitude rather than reasons. “Thank you for turning childhood dreams into realities,” the Spaniard said.
He also reflected on their shared journey from obscurity to global dominance. “I’ve enjoyed every step of it so much with you.”
Their collaboration began when Alcaraz was only 15 years old. He trained at Ferrero’s academy near Murcia, close to his family home. From there, the partnership quickly gathered momentum on the professional circuit as Ferrero carefully guided his prodigy through tennis’s most demanding stages.
The former French Open champion was convinced by agent Albert Molina to commit long-term. Molina had spotted Alcaraz’s talent when he was just 11.
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From teenage prospect to Grand Slam machine
Under Ferrero’s guidance, Alcaraz captured his first major at the 2022 US Open. That breakthrough announced the arrival of a generational force.
He followed up with a Wimbledon triumph in 2023, then added Roland Garros and another Wimbledon title in 2024. This year, he completed another French Open and US Open double. As a result, Ferrero oversaw all six of Alcaraz’s Grand Slam victories. Few coaching partnerships can match that level of sustained success.
Yet, cracks occasionally appeared beneath the surface. A recent documentary hinted at disagreements over focus and lifestyle choices. Ferrero openly questioned Alcaraz’s Ibiza trip after the 2024 French Open. The decision reportedly went against coaching advice.
However, progress continued and maturity followed. After winning this year’s US Open, Alcaraz called it the best performance of his career. Ferrero later praised that display as evidence of personal growth. However, change was already approaching.
“I wish I could have continued,” Ferrero admitted after the announcement. “Good people always find a way to cross paths again.”
The timing surprised many, coming weeks after their ATP Finals celebrations. Alcaraz had spoken positively about future planning then. Now, with the Australian Open looming, attention turns to his next move.
Carlos Alcaraz and Juan Carlos Ferrero end their long partnership as they close a historic chapter after six Grand Slam titles together.
Tags: Carlos Alcaraz, Juan Carlos Ferrero, ATP Finals, Grand Slam.
