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”.
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, collecting 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, had been at the heart of Alcaraz’s development.
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Alongside Samuel López, Ferrero was recently named ATP Coach of the Year after Alcaraz captured the French Open and US Open in 2025, part of an eight-title season that underlined his status as the sport’s defining force.
Yet despite that success, the partnership has now 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.
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”
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“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,” Alcaraz wrote.
“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. I've thoroughly enjoyed every single step of it with you.
“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.”
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Carlos Alcaraz's Grand Slam titles so far | GETTY/PAAlcaraz stressed that the bond went far beyond trophies and rankings, crediting Ferrero with shaping him as a person as well as an athlete.
“You've helped me grow as an athlete, but above all, as a person. And something I value immensely: I've enjoyed the process,” he said. “That's what I'll cherish, the journey we've shared.”
Ferrero responded with equal emotion, admitting the separation was not his preference.
“Today is a difficult day. One of those when it's hard to find the right words,” he wrote.
“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.
“I take with me laughter, challenges overcome, conversations, support during difficult moments, and the satisfaction of having been part of something truly unique.”
Carlos Alcaraz and Juan Carlos Ferrero have nothing but respect and admiration for one another
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Ferrero added: “I wish I could have continued.”
The coach spoke of closing “a very important chapter” with pride rather than bitterness, expressing confidence that the experiences gained would shape what comes next.
“I close it with nostalgia, but also with pride and excitement for what may come next,” Ferrero said. “I am convinced that good memories and good people always find a way to cross paths again.”
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 appointment will be scrutinised as a potential shift in style, structure or philosophy for a player who has already achieved more by 22 than many manage in a lifetime.
Who ends up replacing Ferrero remains to be seen.