Carlos Alcaraz, the rising tennis star, faces a setback in his preparation for the first Grand Slam of 2024, the Australian Open, following the loss of his coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero. As Alcaraz diligently undergoes a rigorous five-week pre-season training program aimed at optimizing his form for the upcoming Melbourne tournament in January, he received the unfortunate news that Ferrero will be unable to accompany him.
Ferrero’s absence is due to a necessitated arthroscopic surgery on his left knee, rendering him unable to travel to Australia. Consequently, Samuel Lopez is set to step in as Ferrero’s replacement for the two-week event, considering Ferrero will require crutches post-operation.
Although Ferrero’s return to coaching Alcaraz is anticipated at the Indian Wells Masters 1000 event in March, he remains committed to overseeing Alcaraz’s training sessions despite his recovery period. Alcaraz has been under Ferrero’s guidance since 2019, benefiting from the seasoned mentorship of the former tennis player as he launched his professional career at just 16 years old.
The loss of Ferrero, a two-time Major winner, undoubtedly presents a challenge for Alcaraz, given their successful coaching partnership. However, Alcaraz finds himself in capable hands with Lopez, an experienced coach known for his work with Spanish player Pablo Carreno Busta. Lopez previously collaborated with Alcaraz during the Queen’s tournament this year, culminating in a title win for the promising young talent from El Palmar.
As Alcaraz readies himself for the Australian Open, the shift in coaching dynamics brings both challenges and opportunities, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of the young athlete in the face of unexpected changes in his support team.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2023
Now the world no.2, Carlos played his last match on the 18th of November when he capitulated to world no.1 Novak Djokovic 6-3 6-2 in the semifinal in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
This year Carlos has achieved a 65-12 match record. The Spaniard has won 6 titles in 2023 in Buenos Aires, Indian Wells, Barcelona, Madrid, London and Wimbledon. Alcaraz was the runner-up in Rio de Janeiro and Cincinnati.