Alcaraz Makes Surprising Coaching Change Before Major Tournament
Carlos Alcaraz appeared in a relaxed, baseball-inspired outfit on Friday, but his mood told a different story. The Spanish tennis superstar, known for his bright smile, seemed guarded and distant during his first official media interaction of 2026. This unusual demeanor came just a month before the Australian Open, the year's first Grand Slam event.
End of an Era with Coach Ferrero
The 22-year-old announced he would be parting ways with his long-standing coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero. This decision arrives at the conclusion of Alcaraz's most defining season yet, where he captured eight ATP Tour titles, including two major championships, and reclaimed the world number one ranking. The split has sent shockwaves through the tennis world, disrupting what many considered a stable partnership.
Reporters immediately focused on the coaching change during the press conference. Three of the first four questions centered on his separation from Ferrero, who had previously described Alcaraz as his "fourth child." The young champion struggled to provide detailed answers about his former mentor.
"With Juan Carlos we decide to do it," Alcaraz stated. "I have plenty of confidence in the team that I have right now. The practices have been really well, I'm feeling well with the team that I have right now."
Contrast with Rival Sinner's Situation
The first question actually referenced his arch-rival Jannik Sinner, who faces Alcaraz across the net in their recent Grand Slam finals. When asked about his own coach Darren Cahill, Sinner described him as "our dad, for the whole team. You feel in a very safe place." This warm endorsement highlighted the contrast with Alcaraz's current coaching transition.
Alcaraz, affectionately called Carlitos by fans, has generally enjoyed positive media coverage throughout his career. He travels with his father Alcaraz Gonzalez and older brother Alvaro, who serves as his hitting partner. Until now, he has rarely faced serious media scrutiny.
This differs markedly from Sinner's experience. The Italian player operated under intense scrutiny after returning positive drug tests two years ago, despite being a four-time Major winner. His public image has been shaped as much by explanations about his past as by his exceptional tennis skills.
Closing a Significant Chapter
When pressed further about Ferrero, Alcaraz offered limited details about their separation. "It is something we just decide. I think any chapter of life has to end. We decided like this," he explained. "I have got to say that I'm really grateful for these seven years I've been with Juan Carlos. I learned a lot. Probably thanks to him I'm the player that I am right now. But internally, we decided like this. We closed this chapter, it's mutual."
New Coaching Arrangement
Alcaraz will continue working with Samuel Lopez, a 55-year-old coach who previously guided Pablo Carreno Busta for nine years. Lopez joined Alcaraz's team in December 2024 and worked alongside Ferrero last season. Together, they earned the ATP Coach of the Year award for their successful collaboration.
The Spanish champion now prepares for the Australian Open, where he hopes to become the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam. He faces Australian player Adam Walton in his opening match at a tournament venue where he hasn't historically found great success.
