The 2025 season has closed, and a new campaign approaches with Carlos Alcaraz positioned as the top-ranked force. Juan Carlos Ferrero had mapped out further evolution for his prodigy after a year that delivered two more Grand Slams and the year-end No. 1. Yet, on the brink of a new season, the Spaniard severed ties with Ferrero, sending ripples through the court before a single ball was struck.

“It’s 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,” Alcaraz wrote, announcing the split in a personal message on his X account. 

“Thank you for turning childhood dreams into realities. 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. And I’ve enjoyed every step of it so much with you.”

Alcaraz started working with Ferrero at just 15, training at Equelite in Villena, where Ferrero took on not just the role of coach but mentor. Over the next few years, Ferrero helped shape his game step by step, from refining his movement and shot selection to preparing him mentally for the ATP Tour. That long process culminated in 2022, when Alcaraz won the US Open and became the youngest world No. 1 in men’s tennis history. Which is probably why the player wrote:

“We’ve managed to reach the top, and I feel that if our sports paths had to part ways, it had to be from up there. From the place we always worked toward and always aspired to reach.

“There are so many memories that come to mind that picking just one wouldn’t be fair. You’ve helped me grow as an athlete, but above all as a person. And something I value so much: I’ve enjoyed the process. That’s what I’ll hold onto, the path we’ve traveled together.”

Ferrero himself is a former world No. 1 and a Grand Slam winner, who began coaching Alcaraz when he was only 16. Under the champion coach, Alcaraz won 24 career titles. That list includes six Grand Slams. He spent 50 weeks as world No. 1. He also secured an Olympic silver medal. Their work together was publicly recognized as well, with Ferrero and Samuel López earning Coach of the Year honors after a season that reflected both results and consistency. That recognition made Ferrero the first man to win the honor multiple times since its creation in 2016.

Yet, Alcaraz said changes were coming for both sides. “Now, times of change are coming for both of us, new adventures and new projects. But I’m certain we’ll face them the right way, giving our best, as we’ve always done. Always adding up.” He also wished Ferrero well. “I wish you all the best from the heart in everything that comes.

The 2025 season showed how far they had come. Alcaraz finished as the Year End No. 1 for the second time. He won 71 of his 80 matches. He claimed eight titles from 11 events. The partnership continued to deliver historic numbers. That made the coaching split even more surprising.

He closed by expressing peace with their effort and their outcome. “I’m left with the peace of mind of knowing we didn’t hold anything back, that we gave everything we had for each other. Thank you for everything, Juanki! ❤️”

Along with the emotional note were two images of Alcraz hugging his (now ex) coach.

 Neither Alcaraz nor Ferrero has explained why Ferrero is leaving the team. The timing raised more questions because a similar coaching discussion surrounded Jannik Sinner and Darren Cahill a couple of months ago. Even Jannik Files shared Sinner’s words: “Darren has given me a lot and I’m grateful for him. He’s not just a coach to me, much more. But we have to understand that he’s 60, so we’ll see. Vagnozzi and I haven’t discussed about the 2nd coach, he needs free time so we’ll talk and decide calmly.”

Later, ahead of the ATP Finals in Turin, Darren Cahill confirmed that he would continue coaching Sinner through 2026. That clarity ended the rumors.

Now Ferrero leaves the Spaniard’s side. He also shared his own message about the long partnership he enjoyed with Carlos.

Juan Carlos Ferrero shares heartfelt message after parting ways

After the separation became public, Ferrero released his own message. He posted a statement on Instagram with photos from their years together. He wrote: “Today is a difficult day. 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. I want to thank you for the time, the trust, the learning, and above all, for the people who have surrounded me throughout this journey. I take with me laughter, challenges overcome, conversations, support during difficult moments, and the satisfaction of having been part of something truly unique.”

“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.”

He also thanked the wider team. He wrote: “I would also like to thank the entire team for making my work easier throughout all these years. With you, I have learned that work is not just about tasks or results, but about the people who walk alongside you. Each and every one of you has left a mark on me that I will never forget. 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.”

Alcaraz still works with Samuel Lopez, who coaches at Ferrero’s academy in Alicante. With the new season approaching, the Spanish No. 1 is now expected to unveil his next coach in the coming days.