Legend predicts: After parting ways with Ferrero, two coaches are the best fit to lead Alcaraz!

On December 17, Alcaraz declared his split from longtime coach Ferrero. After the announcement spread quickly, Brad Gilbert, former coach of Gauff, identified two leading contenders to take over as the Spanish player’s coach.

Alcaraz’s collaboration with Ferrero lasted seven years and yielded outstanding results. The world No.1 started training with Ferrero at 15 and won six Grand Slam trophies under his mentorship. The Spanish star shared the news of their separation through a heartfelt message on Instagram, admitting that making this decision was very difficult. He also posted several photos with his former coach, highlighting their close bond. Meanwhile, Ferrero wrote a farewell letter on social media, expressing how much he wished to continue in the role.

Hours after the split was announced, Gauff’s former coach Gilbert shared his perspective. He revealed two possible candidates to become Alcaraz’s head coach for the upcoming 2026 season. In a video posted on platform X, he stated that both Ferrer and Moyà are ideal choices in his opinion.

“The first two names that come to mind are David Ferrer—the Spanish Davis Cup captain and obviously a great former player who knows Carlos very well; he could possibly step in as an interim coach. But the name that really caught my attention and seems very interesting is Carlos Moyà, who had huge success working with Nadal. However, Moyà is currently at the Nadal Academy, so how that relationship will evolve remains to be seen. The next few weeks will be very intriguing. But without a doubt, this morning’s news was truly shocking,” Gilbert said.

Gilbert further shared his thoughts on Alcaraz and Ferrero’s split, revealing he was deeply surprised when he heard the news. Reflecting on the sudden separation, he remarked on the unpredictability of the tennis world and discussed Alcaraz’s successful season. “Anyway, Alcaraz and Ferrero parting ways is a massive shock. Just last week I said the offseason was very quiet and sensed something might happen, but I never imagined it would be this morning’s situation, especially after Alcaraz had an incredible season finishing as world No.1 in his best career year,” Gilbert explained. “But that’s tennis—you can never predict what will happen.”

Alcaraz had an outstanding 2025 season, winning eight titles including two Grand Slams. The Spaniard claimed championships at the ATP Rotterdam, Italian Open, Monte Carlo Masters, French Open, Queen’s Club, Cincinnati Masters, US Open, and Japan Open. The 22-year-old is expected to start his 2026 season at the Australian Open.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Spark)