Carlos Alcaraz announces split from coach Juan Carlos Ferrero
Carlos Alcaraz has announced a stunning split from long-time coach Juan Carlos Ferrero, bringing an end to one of modern tennis’s most successful partnerships as the world No 1 prepares for what he described as a “new adventure,” reports BritPanorama.
The decision closes a chapter that began more than seven years ago, when Alcaraz was still a teenager with prodigious talent and raw ambition. Under Ferrero’s guidance, the Spaniard rose from junior promise to global dominance, accumulating 24 career titles, six Grand Slams, and the world No 1 ranking in a meteoric ascent that has reshaped the men’s game.
Ferrero, himself a former world No 1 and the 2003 French Open champion, has been central to Alcaraz’s development. Alongside Samuel López, he was recently named ATP Coach of the Year after Alcaraz captured both the French Open and US Open in 2025, amid an eight-title season that underscored his status as the sport’s defining force. Despite this success, the partnership has come to an abrupt end.
No formal reason has been given for the split, which Alcaraz confirmed in an emotional statement shared on social media. “It is very difficult for me to write this post… After more than seven years together, Juanki and I have decided to end our time together as coach and player. Thank you for turning my childhood dreams into reality,” he wrote. Alcaraz recognised that their journey began when he was just a kid and reflected on the incredible adventure they experienced, both on and off the court.
Alcaraz continued, “We reached the top, and I feel that if our sporting paths had to diverge, it should be from up there. From the place we always worked towards and always aspired to reach.” The sentiment echoed in Ferrero’s response, where he admitted that the separation was not his preference, calling the day “difficult” and acknowledging the numerous shared experiences that made their time together special.
“Saying goodbye is never easy, especially when there are so many shared experiences behind it. We have worked hard, grown together, and shared unforgettable moments,” Ferrero expressed. He also noted that he wished he could have continued in his role, emphasising the pride felt in what they achieved together.
The split raises immediate questions about Alcaraz’s next move as he enters the prime years of his career. With the tennis world watching closely, any new appointment will be scrutinised as a potential shift in style, structure, or philosophy for a player who has already accomplished more by the age of 22 than many achieve in a lifetime. Who replaces Ferrero remains to be seen.
In a sport where coaching can shape careers, Alcaraz’s next decision may prove just as pivotal as those that brought him to the pinnacle of tennis.
