Carlos Alcaraz has expressed strong admiration for Samuel Lopez, calling him one of the finest coaches in tennis after their collaboration led to the world No. 1’s remarkable victory at the Australian Open. This achievement highlights Alcaraz’s coaching success as he continues to thrive under Lopez’s guidance.
On Sunday, Alcaraz made history by becoming the youngest male player in the Open Era to complete the Career Grand Slam, defeating Novak Djokovic in four sets to claim the title in Melbourne. This milestone came shortly after Alcaraz announced an unexpected split with Juan Carlos Ferrero, his longtime coach since his youth.
Many observers doubted how Alcaraz would adjust to the departure of Ferrero, especially following an outstanding 2025 season that had elevated the Spaniard to new heights. Lopez initially joined as a co-coach alongside Ferrero at the beginning of 2025 but is now the sole head coach for the 22-year-old champion. During the Australian Open, Alcaraz defended Lopez against criticism from experts who suggested he needed a more prominent coach following Ferrero’s exit.
Choosing to maintain Lopez as his exclusive coach proved to be a wise decision, culminating in a new tradition at the Australian Open where Lopez received a trophy during the men’s singles award ceremony. Alcaraz was visibly pleased to see Lopez honored, which he called a significant acknowledgment of the coach’s role in his success.
The Importance of Recognizing the Coach’s Role
Speaking with AS, Alcaraz shared his excitement over Lopez receiving a trophy at the Australian Open, something he had never witnessed before. He praised the tournament’s decision to formally recognize the coach’s contribution, emphasizing that winning is not just the player’s achievement. Alcaraz said,
“The tournament does a great job in that regard. I didn’t know that; it was my first time at a trophy ceremony in Australia, and I didn’t know they did that.”
He added,
“I think it’s a fantastic initiative because it gives recognition to the champion’s coach; it’s not just the player’s job.”
Alcaraz was especially moved by seeing Lopez on the podium and acknowledged the years of dedication behind the moment.
“For me, he’s one of the best coaches — if not the best — you can have on a tennis court today.”
For me, it was a magical and incredibly special moment: hugging him after the last point and seeing him there, with everyone recognising what he deserves.
Carlos Alcaraz
Ongoing Team Dynamics and Future Plans
Alcaraz appears committed to continuing with Lopez as his principal coach. Meanwhile, his older brother, Alvaro, has begun to take a larger role within the team, providing additional support. Following his demanding run at the Australian Open, Alcaraz has postponed his return to competition, withdrawing from the Rotterdam Open to recover physically and mentally.
Despite this break, the seven-time Grand Slam winner plans to return to the court within the same month, as he is scheduled to compete at the Qatar Open in February. This careful management of his schedule reflects his focus on sustaining peak performance with the backing of his coaching team.
