Carlos Alcaraz has confirmed that he and long-time coach Juan Carlos Ferrero have mutually decided to end their professional relationship after more than seven years together, bringing to a close one of the most successful player-coach partnerships of the modern era.
In an emotional post shared on X (formerly Twitter) the Spanish star paid tribute to Ferrero, affectionately known as Juanki, thanking him for a journey that transformed childhood ambition into tennis immortality.
“It’s very difficult for me to write this post..After more than seven years together, Juanki and I have decided to end our stage together as coach and player,” Alcaraz wrote. “Thank you for turning a child’s dreams into realities.”
The pair first began working together when Alcaraz was still a teenage prospect, long before he became a household name on the ATP Tour.
A Partnership That Shaped a Champion
Under the guidance of Ferrero, a former World No. 1 and 2003 French Open champion, Alcaraz developed into one of the most complete and electrifying players in the sport. Their collaboration was built not only on tactical growth and physical development, but also on patience, trust, and a long-term vision.
Alcaraz stressed that the timing of the decision was deliberate, noting that it comes at a moment of fulfillment rather than frustration.
“We have managed to reach the top, and I feel that, if our sporting paths had to separate, it should be from up there–from the place we always worked toward and always aspired to reach,” he explained.
Beyond the trophies, Alcaraz highlighted the personal impact Ferrero had on his life, crediting him with helping him mature both on and off the court. “Something I value immensely: I have enjoyed the process,” he added. “I keep that — the path we traveled together.”
Seven Years of Shared Success
The Alcaraz–Ferrero partnership yielded extraordinary results. Together, they guided Alcaraz from junior promise to global stardom, with the Spaniard winning multiple Grand Slam titles, reaching the summit of the ATP rankings, and consistently competing at the very highest level of the sport.
Ferrero’s influence was evident in Alcaraz’s all-court versatility, tactical intelligence, and mental resilience — traits that allowed him to thrive across surfaces and against vastly different playing styles. Their work turned Alcaraz into not just a champion, but a defining player of his generation.
Looking Ahead
Alcaraz concluded his message by expressing optimism about the future for both parties, acknowledging that change, while difficult, also brings opportunity.
“Times of change are coming for both of us, new adventures and new projects… I am certain we will tackle them the right way, giving the best of ourselves, as we have always done.”
He signed off with heartfelt gratitude: “I wish you the very best from the heart in everything to come.. Thank you for everything, Juanki! ❤️”
While questions now turn to who will guide Alcaraz in the next phase of his career, the legacy of his partnership with Ferrero is already secure–a rare blend of mentorship, success, and shared belief that helped shape one of tennis’s brightest stars.
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-Imagn Images