Carlos Alcaraz claimed all six Grand Slam titles under Juan Carlos Ferrero's mentorship, his most recent coming at this year's US Open.
Six-time major champion Carlos Alcaraz has split with his mentor Juan Carlos Ferrero in a shock move.
Alcaraz, 22, has worked with his compatriot Spaniard since he was a youth, but announced on Wednesday that the pair have "decided to part ways" ahead of the 2026 season.
Neither Alcaraz nor Ferrero has stated a explanation for the separation.
The top-ranked player Alcaraz has yet to outlined if he intends to replace Ferrero.
"I am grateful for transforming childhood dreams into realities," Alcaraz remarked in a message.
"We started this journey when I was very young, and over all this time you've been by my side on an remarkable journey, both on and off the court.
"It has been a pleasure to experience each moment of it immensely with you."
The 45-year-old Ferrero, is a former world number one. He nurtured Alcaraz's talent at his academy near Murcia before leading him to all six major championship titles.
The Implications for The Champion's Path
This sudden coaching change represents the conclusion of a trophy-laden player-coach relationship that shaped the early career of one of tennis's biggest names.
- The search for a replacement mentor will be a pivotal decision for Alcaraz as he aims to build upon his Grand Slam collection.
- The tennis world and pundits will monitor how this transition affects his form in the season ahead.
- The legacy of Ferrero's work is indelible, having ushered a talented youngster to the pinnacle of the sport.