The most reliable insider news about Alcaraz replacing Ferrero has been revealed; Xiao Qian advances to the final aiming for his first title, and Kokos returns to the court.

21/12/2025 12:51:00 PANDATV

Three minutes daily to stay updated on global tennis news. Hello tennis fans, today is Sunday, December 21, 2025. Welcome to the midday news report brought to you by "Tennis Home."

Last night Beijing time, Murcia local TV, the hometown of world No.1 Alcaraz, released a detailed report outlining the full story behind Alcaraz parting ways with Ferrero. Many fans who watched it believe this is the most credible insider account of the split between Alcaraz and Ferrero.

The report states that initial dissatisfaction with Ferrero came from Alcaraz’s father. They had conflicts starting from the beginning of the 2023 season, mainly centered on Alcaraz missing the Australian Open and competing in the South American swing in February. Ferrero took a break without consulting anyone and did not accompany Alcaraz to the tournaments, which angered Alcaraz’s father.

Over the next two years, Ferrero’s presence with Alcaraz on tour gradually decreased. Especially in the 2025 season, of the eight titles Alcaraz won, only three were with Ferrero by his side. This caused resentment from Alcaraz’s father and other team members. Ferrero explained that he needed to care for his three children and manage his tennis academy, but this excuse did not satisfy Alcaraz’s father. The conflict escalated during this year’s Paris Masters when Alcaraz lost in the first round to British player Norrie. After the match, Ferrero, as head coach, did not stay to analyze or review with Alcaraz but immediately flew back to Spain, which infuriated Alcaraz’s father.

The report also mentions that during contract renewal talks at season’s end, Ferrero wanted Alcaraz to train at Ferrero’s academy in Valencia. However, Alcaraz had made it clear years ago that he wished to base his training in his hometown Murcia, especially now that his family has established the Alcaraz Tennis Academy there. Both sides stood firm, and this disagreement remained unresolved, escalating the conflict. The salary reduction for Ferrero was merely a negotiation tactic during the renewal talks.

Clearly, this local TV station’s stance in the report leans toward Alcaraz’s side, suggesting Ferrero was somewhat arrogant, inconsiderate, and his actions were inappropriate. Some fans feel that when money is involved, loyalty must be honored. Following contract terms is natural, and whoever breaches them must bear responsibility—one cannot have it both ways. If the TV station’s report is accurate, Ferrero likely bears more responsibility for the breakup.

Back to the court. Early this morning Beijing time, the ATP Next Gen Finals concluded two semifinal matches. Top seed Lerner Chen defeated sixth seed Basavareddy 4-2, 4-1, 4-3(3), reaching the final for the second consecutive year. In the other match, second seed Brooks maintained his hot form, winning straight sets 4-3(4), 4-3(8), 4-2 over fifth seed Budkov-Shel, advancing strongly to the final with his fourth consecutive win. Tomorrow at 1 AM Beijing time, the ultimate showdown of this year’s Next Gen Finals will take place, featuring last year’s runner-up Lerner Chen against rising star Brooks. Who do you think will lift the trophy?

Now for a player update. Last night Beijing time, the ATP250 Brisbane event officially announced that Australian player Kyrgios will compete in this season-opening tournament. The 30-year-old Kyrgios last played an official singles match in March this year at the Miami Masters. Since then, he has been sidelined with injuries. Some fans think that after such a long absence without systematic training, Kyrgios’s return might be just for show. Do you agree with this fan opinion?

Finally, let’s play a guessing game. The picture below shows a player lying on the ground celebrating a victory. Without any hints, can you recognize who he is?