One month after parting ways with Carlos Alcaraz, former coach Juan Carlos Ferrero has expressed openness to reuniting with the young Spaniard. In a recent interview, Ferrero clarified that he is not closing doors on future collaboration, while also exploring new coaching opportunities in golf. Alcaraz, meanwhile, advances to his first Australian Open semifinals without his longtime mentor.
Juan Carlos Ferrero and Carlos Alcaraz ended their seven-year partnership at the close of 2025 due to a contractual disagreement, marking the end of a highly successful era. Together since Alcaraz was 14 years old, the duo secured 24 titles, including six Grand Slams. Alcaraz has since charged into his first Australian Open semifinals in Melbourne, remaining undefeated in sets during the tournament.
Speaking to Clay Tennis on January 29, 2026, Ferrero addressed speculation about his future. "I meant that doors should not be closed with an absolute no, right?" he said. "Just as I could return alongside Carlos at some point, who knows. Just as I could coach any other player on the tour, one of them could be Jannik (Sinner)." He clarified that no one from Sinner's team has contacted him beyond a congratulatory message on his past work with Alcaraz.
Ferrero emphasized his reluctance to burn bridges. "Yes… yes, of course, of course! In the end, I think closing doors in a blunt way is neither intelligent, nor good, nor is it what I feel at this moment," he added. The 2003 French Open champion has since pivoted to golf, joining 21-year-old Ángel Ayora's team on the DP World Tour to focus on mental performance and professional development.
Watching Alcaraz's matches from afar has been challenging for Ferrero. In an interview with TenGolf, he admitted, "It’s hard when you watch him compete, and you see all your team that’s there in the chair." He praised Alcaraz's form: "I’m happy with how he’s playing... He is at a great level, congratulations, and may he continue at his best."
Alcaraz, now coached by Samuel López, faces Alexander Zverev in the semifinals on January 31, 2026, with the Australian Open title as his primary goal—the only major missing from his collection. The emotional bond between Ferrero and Alcaraz remains evident, with Alcaraz once describing the relationship as feeling like family.
