Carlos Alcaraz and Ferrero split after seven successful years. [Image Source: 365DM]
Carlos Alcaraz and his former coach Juan Carlos Ferrero are taking some time apart to recover following their sudden split, which was confirmed at the end of the 2025 season. After seven years of collaboration that resulted in six Grand Slam titles and the world No. 1 ranking for Alcaraz, the two Spaniards decided to part ways amid speculation about internal tensions and financial disagreements.
Feliciano Lopez commented on the situation, noting that both Alcaraz and Ferrero are still in the process of healing from the fallout. He emphasized that the split appeared rushed and that Alcaraz, despite his talent, still relied on Ferrero’s guidance for success.
Alcaraz’s Flourishing Solo Career and Ferrero’s New Direction
Despite the separation, Carlos Alcaraz has thrived, capturing a seventh Grand Slam title at the Australian Open and becoming the youngest player to complete the Career Grand Slam. His strong performances indicate his ability to win independently, even without Ferrero in his corner.
Meanwhile, Juan Carlos Ferrero has chosen to step away from tennis coaching and has embarked on a new career as a golf instructor, signaling a significant change in his professional focus.
Perspectives from Tennis Insiders and Public Reactions
Feliciano Lopez, a four-time Davis Cup winner, publicly described the split as “hasty” and shared his belief that Alcaraz still needed Ferrero’s support despite his evident talent. Lopez remarked,
Image of: Carlos Alcaraz
“The proof is that he went to Australia and won the Australian Open.”
Since the split, Alcaraz and Ferrero have kept respectful tones about each other. However, Ferrero unfollowed Alcaraz on Instagram after the Australian Open victory, prompting Lopez to observe,
“Everyone is different, everyone deals with grief in their own way.”
Criticism has also surfaced regarding Alcaraz’s silence about Ferrero during his Australian Open triumph. Toni Nadal, Rafael Nadal’s uncle and former coach, expressed disappointment that Alcaraz did not publicly acknowledge Ferrero for his role in laying the groundwork for his success. Toni Nadal commented,
“It’s all well and good to praise your coach, but you have to remember the other one too.”
Alcaraz’s Gratitude and the Need for Time to Heal
Despite the absence of public thanks, those close to Alcaraz maintain that he is deeply thankful to Ferrero. Feliciano Lopez stated,
“I think Alcaraz remembered Ferrero because he is infinitely grateful for everything he has done for him, but he hasn’t done so publicly.”
Lopez further added that the intense nature of their relationship means a period of separation might be necessary for both to move forward peacefully:
“There’s a lot of noise around it, and when a relationship is so intense, perhaps a little time apart would be good.”
This split marks an important transition for both Alcaraz and Ferrero, with the young tennis star proving his independence on the court while Ferrero explores a new chapter in his career. How they reconcile—if at all—and the long-term impact on Alcaraz’s career remain topics of interest in the tennis world.
