One of the most successful coaching partnerships in recent years has come to an end after Carlos Alcaraz confirmed the departure of Juan Carlos Ferrero from his team.
The world No.1 announced on Wednesday that he will no longer be working with former French Open champion Ferrero, who has mentored him since the age of 15. During their time together, Alcaraz became one of the most formidable tennis players in the world, winning 24 ATP titles with six of those being at Grand Slam events.
“It is very difficult for me to write this post,” Alcaraz wrote in Spanish on Instagram. “After over seven years together, Juanki and I have decided to end our time together as coach and player. Thank you for making my childhood dreams a reality. We started on this road when I was just a boy and for all this time you have been with me on an incredible journey, on and off the court. I have enjoyed every step with you so much.
“We have reached the top, and I think that if our sporting paths have to separate it should be from there, from the place we always worked for and aspired to reach. I have so many memories that it would be unfair to choose just one. You made me grow as an athlete, but more importantly as a person. The thing I value the most is that I enjoyed the process. I will never forget the journey we went on together.
“Now is a time of change for both of us, new adventures, new projects. But I am sure that we will approach them in the correct way, giving our best, as we always have. Always moving forward. With all my heart, I wish you the best for what is to come. I am happy I can say we always gave our all, that we gave each other everything.”
The shock split occurs at the end of what has been a successful year for Alcaraz, who achieved a win-loss record of 71-9 and won eight trophies. There is yet to be any confirmation on the precise reason why the successful partnership has come to an end.
However, Spanish national broadcaster RTVE reports that Ferrero’s departure occurred after failing to reach an agreement with Alcaraz for a new contract. Furthermore, BBC Sport ‘understands’ that he didn’t want to leave his role.
Ferrero himself has also indicated that he didn’t want to step away from coaching his compatriot in his own statement.
“We have been an incredible team despite the difficulties, and I am sure you will continue to achieve great success,” he wrote.
“I wish I could have continued. I am convinced that good memories and good people always find a way to cross paths again. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Heading into 2026, Alcaraz will be under the guidance of Samuel López, who has previously served as deputy to Ferrero. Lopez will be at the Australian Open, but it is not known if an additional coach will be hired.
At next month’s Australian Open, Alcaraz has a shot at achieving a career grand Slam before his 23rd birthday.
