'Hard to find the right words': Details emerge about sudden Alcaraz-Ferrero split
- Christian Montegan
- 11 hours ago
- 3 min read
In news that has sent shockwaves across the tennis world, world No.1 Carlos Alcaraz has parted ways with coach Juan Carlos Ferrero, but the reasons for the split are beginning to surface.
Ferrero has coached Alcaraz for seven years since the latter was 16, a successful partnership that has propelled Alcaraz to six Grand Slam titles.
"After more than seven years together, Juanki and I have decided to bring our chapter together as coach and player to an end," Alcaraz posted on social media.
"Thank you for turning childhood dreams into reality. We started this journey when I was barely a kid, and throughout all this time you've accompanied me on an incredible journey, on and off the court. I've enjoyed every single step with you immensely."
Ferrero shared his own heartfelt words, which contained sadness.
"Today is a difficult day," Ferrero said. "One of those when it's hard to find the right words. 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.
"Today, a very important chapter of my life comes to an end. I close it with nostalgia, but also with pride and excitement for what may come next. I know that everything I have lived has prepared me to be better. Thank you, Carlos, for the trust, the effort, and for making your way of competing make me feel so special. I wish you all the best, both professionally and personally.
"We have been an incredible team despite the difficulties, and I am sure you will continue to achieve great success. 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."
A source very close to Alcaraz's years of great success in international tennis told CLAY and RG Media: "There were significant disagreements between Ferrero and Alcaraz's father about how to manage the player's career."
Javier de Diego, a tennis expert on Spanish radio, explained that "the relationship broke down two days ago" amid stalls in contract negotiations.
In a recent interview with CLAY, Ferrero was asked about his comments on Alcaraz's professionalism off-court.
"Understanding professionalism, when to really work, when to rest, when to be focused. That, for young people today, is really complicated, because it is often difficult for them to live the reality of their surroundings," he said.
"They go from week to week, they are treated very well everywhere, and they don't see reality. In that respect, I think he is improving a lot. I think the team structure around him helps him to keep his feet on the ground."
Spanish radio station RNE Deportes revealed that Alcaraz's first coach, Kiko Navarro, stated that the 22-year-old didn't want Ferrero removed from his team, which goes hand-in-hand with what a close source told CLAY and RG Media about decision being driven by other members of Alcaraz's inner circle.
The Kooyong Classic returns to the spiritual home of Australian tennis from January 13-15, 2026.
Each year, the Kooyong Classic features the world’s best players in their final preparation for the Australian Open.
The 2026 event will feature Lorenzo Musetti, Alexander Bublik, Nick Kyrgios, Karen Khachanov, Flavio Cobolli, Frances Tiafoe, Learner Tien, Matteo Berrettini, Hubert Hurkacz, Marin Čilić and Zhang Zhizhen, alongside Donna Vekić and a special guest appearance Daniela Hantuchová. More to be announced in coming weeks.
Tickets on sale now through Ticketek/www.kooyongclassic.com.au
Hospitality packages can be viewed on the Kooyong Classic website and purchased by contacting info@kooyongclassic.com.au.
