World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz announces surprise breakup with coach Juan Carlos Ferrero after seven years
Carlos Alcaraz has brought the curtain down on a defining chapter of his career, parting ways with long-time coach Juan Carlos Ferrero ahead of the 2026 season.
The shock split ends a seven-year partnership that began when Alcaraz was still a teenager and blossomed into one of the most successful coach–player relationships in modern tennis. Under Ferrero’s guidance, the Spaniard surged to World No. 1, won 24 career titles and lifted six Grand Slam trophies.
Ferrero, a former French Open champion himself in 2003, played a central role in Alcaraz’s meteoric rise, most recently overseeing a glittering 2025 season that included Roland Garros and US Open triumphs among eight titles overall. Just months ago, Ferrero and fellow coach Samuel Lopez were named ATP Coaches of the Year for their work with the 22-year-old.
Despite the success, no official reason has been given for the separation.
Ferrero admitted the decision was painful, writing on Instagram: “I wish I could have continued.”
Alcaraz, meanwhile, paid a heartfelt tribute on X, thanking his mentor for “turning my childhood dreams into reality.”
In an emotional statement, Alcaraz reflected on their journey together:
“We started this journey when I was just a kid, and you’ve been with me on an incredible adventure, both on and off the court. 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.”
The world No. 1 added that Ferrero helped him grow not only as a tennis player, but as a person, stressing that the process — not just the trophies — is what he will cherish most.
“Now a time of change is upon us both, bringing new adventures and new projects. But I take comfort in knowing we gave everything to each other. Thanks for everything, Juanki.”
An era has ended at the summit of the sport — and while the reasons remain private, the legacy of Alcaraz and Ferrero’s partnership is already etched into tennis history.
