David Ferrer has commended Carlos Alcaraz for his professional approach to parting ways with coach Juan Carlos Ferrero. The world No. 1 has remained undefeated in 2026, securing victories at the Australian Open and Qatar Open. Ferrer highlights Alcaraz's emotional maturity as a key factor in his strong start to the season.
Former world No. 3 and Spanish Davis Cup captain David Ferrer has spoken positively about Carlos Alcaraz's management of his coaching change at the end of 2025. Alcaraz, then 22, announced the split from Juan Carlos Ferrero in December, concluding a successful partnership that began during his teenage years. Under Ferrero's guidance, Alcaraz captured his first six Grand Slam titles and became the youngest man to reach world No. 1.
The separation has drawn significant attention, with Ferrero addressing it in recent interviews. However, Alcaraz has shown no signs of disruption. He started 2026 unbeaten, winning his seventh Grand Slam at the Australian Open, where he became the youngest man in the Open Era to achieve a Career Grand Slam. This triumph was followed by a decisive 50-minute victory over Arthur Fils in the Qatar Open final.
In an interview with Clay and RG Media, Ferrer emphasized Alcaraz's professionalism. "A break-up like that is never easy, because in the end there’s an emotional side to it, and that will always be there," Ferrer said. "Carlos is a very focused player, very professional, and he showed he handled the end of his partnership with Ferrero very well emotionally, both in Australia and in Doha."
Ferrer, who competed against Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Roger Federer during his career, draws parallels between Alcaraz and the 'Big 3,' particularly Nadal. "Carlitos is having a very good year. Obviously, he hasn’t lost a match yet and that also gives you a lot of confidence and stability," Ferrer added. "I think he’s a special player, different, like Rafa Nadal was, like the Big Three. They are players who handle pressure very well."
Alcaraz's form extends to Indian Wells, where he received a bye in the opening round, defeated Grigor Dimitrov in the second round, and overcame 26th seed Arthur Rinderknech in three sets on Sunday. He is set to face 13th seed Casper Ruud in the fourth round on Wednesday.