Long-time coach Juan Carlos Ferrero and world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz have officially parted ways after a successful seven-year partnership — and the breakup was rooted in contract negotiations and strained relations with Alcaraz’s family team.
Sources close to Ferrero tell ClayTenis that the final contract renewal process was rushed and tense. After the 2025 contract expired in late November, Ferrero received the new proposal on Dec. 13 and was given only two days to read and sign it. He submitted a counter-offer, but it was rejected outright — and talks ended with no further negotiation.
Ferrero had been instrumental in Alcaraz’s rise from a promising teenager to one of tennis’s biggest stars, guiding him to six Grand Slam titles and the world No. 1 ranking. Despite their history, the relationship between Ferrero and Alcaraz’s father had been deteriorating for some time, adding off-court tension to the split.
Now that the partnership has ended, Ferrero is expected to take a break from coaching, with those close to him saying he’s likely to rest first before considering any new roles.
This development comes as broader reports confirm the split and highlight that both Alcaraz and Ferrero expressed mutual respect and gratitude, even as they head in different directions.
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