Even though the news emerged several months ago, Juan Carlos Ferrero’s continuous media appearances have ensured that his departure from Carlos Alcaraz’s coaching staff, set for before the 2026 season, remains a prominent topic in tennis discussions off the court.
His latest interview was an hour-long discussion with Josep Pedrerol on the “El Cafelito” podcast. In this conversation, Alcaraz’s former coach elaborated on the factors that ultimately caused the breakdown of what appeared to be a successful collaboration.
Ferrero Suggests Family Involvement in Alcaraz Split
While Ferrero avoided naming specific individuals, he strongly implied that close associates of Alcaraz, including family members, also advocated for the separation following escalating tensions between the two parties, a detail that had surfaced in earlier reports.
Ferrero also repeatedly expressed his openness to either coaching Alcaraz again or at least mending their relationship. The former World No. 1 mentioned he would gladly embrace the Spaniard, noting that witnessing Alcaraz’s victories and social media presence now evokes a mixed sense of joy and sadness.
Alcaraz Prioritizes Future
In contrast to Ferrero, who continues to discuss the separation regularly in interviews, Alcaraz has decidedly put that chapter behind him. The Spanish tennis star has largely avoided discussing the matter during tournament press conferences, believing that his sincere social media announcement already covered all necessary details.
Nevertheless, when questioned about his approach to Indian Wells this year without Ferrero, a tournament where he has previously excelled, Alcaraz responded with confidence.
“It is what it is, I suppose. It’s not really a new team; it’s mostly the same individuals, just with a slight restructuring. We have the same members as before, just one less. Returning to a tournament I played last year always feels a bit different. You sense a change, but we strive to maintain maximum comfort both on and off the court.”
A Consistent Support System for Alcaraz
Following Ferrero’s departure, Alcaraz opted not to add a new member to his team but instead elevated Samuel Lopez, a long-term collaborator, to the role of head coach. This internal continuity, coupled with the expanded involvement of his brother, Alvaro Alcaraz, has facilitated a remarkably smooth transition despite Ferrero’s absence.
His performance this season certainly validates this approach. Alcaraz has begun the year with an impressive 12-0 record and arrives at Indian Wells aiming for a third title at the event, further expanding his rapidly accumulating accomplishments.
