Alcaraz splits with coach Ferrero to end smash-hit seven-year partnership

New Delhi: World number one men's tennis player Carlos Alcaraz has announced a shock split with his longtime coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero. The decison to part ways with the man who guided Alcaraz to the top of men's tennis during a highly successful seven-year partnership has taken the tennis fans by surprise.

Alcaraz confirmed the news on Wednesday in a message on his social networks. Meanwhile, Ferrero, in a separate statement, thanked his disciple and said he wished he "could have continued."

With Ferrero as a coach, Alcaraz enjoyed unprecedented success and won six Grand Slams: two French Open titles, two Wimbledon crowns and two US Opens. Under Ferrero's win since he was a 15-year-old boy, Alacarz also claimed 24 tour-level titles, including eight Masters 1000 trophies.

"After more than seven years together, Juanki and I have decided to bring our chapter together as coach and player to an end," the 22-year-old Alcaraz wrote. "Thank you for turning childhood dreams into reality. We started this journey when I was barely a kid, and throughout all this time you've accompanied me on an incredible journey, on and off the court. I've enjoyed every single step with you immensely."

During one of the most succesful periods, Alcaraz under Ferrero's coaching became the youngest player to reach No. 1 in the ATP rankings after winning the U.S. Open in 2022 at 19.

"Today is a difficult day," Ferrero said. "One of those when it's hard to find the right words. Saying goodbye is never easy, especially when there are so many shared experiences behind it. We have worked hard, grown together, and shared unforgettable moments."

Alcaraz didn't reveal whether he would hire a new coach as a replacement or continue with Samuel Lopez, whom he hired last year to work with Ferrero.

Earlier this month, Ferrero and Lopez won the best coach titles at the ATP awards after helping Alcazar reclaim the No. 1 spot.

The recognition came after yet another prolific season for the Spanish title ace, who won a career-best and season-leading 71 matches and finished with eight titles, including Grand Slam trophies at Roland-Garros and the US Open.

"We have been an incredible team despite the difficulties, and I am sure you will continue to achieve great success," Ferrero said. "I wish I could have continued. I am convinced that good memories and good people always find a way to cross paths again. Thank you from the bottom of my heart."

The timing of the announcement is also surprising, as it comes a month before the start of the season's first Grand Slam, the Australian Open, where Alcaraz will aim to become the youngest man to complete the career Grand Slam.