Tennis

Carlos Alcaraz backed to reunite with former coach Ferrero

David Ferrer knows both men well and believes they could reunite after their high-profile split.

David Ferrer knows both men well and believes they could reunite after their high-profile split.
FRANCISCO RODRIGUEZ | DiarioAS

David Ferrer believes the story between Juan Carlos Ferrero and Carlos Alcaraz is not finished yet. The Spanish Davis Cup captain shared his thoughts on the high-profile coaching split during an appearance on Cadena SER’s “Mano a Mano” podcast in Spain, offering a personal and emotional perspective on the breakup between two of the most influential figures in Spanish tennis.

Ferrer speaks as a friend, not a captain

Ferrer, a former world No. 3 and one of Spain’s most respected tennis voices, made it clear that his reaction was shaped more by friendship than by his role as Davis Cup captain.

“I didn’t experience it as captain. I experienced it as a friend of Juan Carlos,” Ferrer said when asked about the statement announcing Ferrero’s departure as Alcaraz’s coach, which was shared on social media.

Ferrer and Ferrero have known each other for years, with their relationship extending well beyond the court. That history made the news hit closer to home.

Ferrero’s early gamble on Alcaraz

Ferrer was quick to underline the scale of Ferrero’s commitment to Alcaraz at a crucial moment in the young star’s development.

“When Alcaraz was 16, Ferrero had offers to coach Top 3 players in the world and he chose to bet on Carlos,” Ferrer said. “He made a huge sacrifice for him, even though he obviously knew Carlos was someone special.”

That decision proved transformative, helping guide Alcaraz from teenage prodigy to global superstar and Grand Slam champion.

“It has to end better”

Despite the split, Ferrer does not believe the relationship has truly run its course.

I think there will be a second chapter,” he said. “It has to end better.”

Ferrer admitted the situation left him feeling sad, particularly because of his close bond with Ferrero.

I’m hurt for them, because Juan Carlos is my friend,” he said. “And the statement surprised me, because everything seemed to be fine.”

Praise for Alcaraz

Ferrer also made a point of defending Alcaraz, stressing that there are no villains in the story.

Carlos is very levelheaded and very professional,” he said. “I only have positive things to say about both of them.”

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