Exclusive Interview with Ferrero: I Would Give Everything for Alcaraz; Money and Business Conflicts Are Not Reasons for Our Split

The announcement of Alcaraz and Ferrero parting ways caused much public discussion, and after a period of quiet, Ferrero took the initiative to speak with Spain’s Marca newspaper, responding to numerous rumors and speculations.

When revisiting the subject, Ferrero’s initial statement was, “I am really hurting now.” He confessed that he still requires time to grieve and soothe his emotional pain. However, he expressed that despite no longer working together, he retains affection and hope for their mentor-student relationship, wishing that one day they might collaborate again.

“As Carlos’s coach, this experience has been incredibly rewarding for me. We were both very fortunate. He found someone who could guide his growth, with professional tennis experience and plenty to teach; and I found a player with an astonishing ability to learn and absorb everything at lightning speed. When I arrived, he already displayed remarkable skills technically, physically, and mentally. Our entire team pushed him to new heights, and he gave his all—everything was dedicated to learning, training, and progressing. Meeting someone like him was truly a blessing. I believe we are both grateful for this journey.” Reflecting on this experience, Ferrero’s sincerity deeply moved the interviewer.

When asked about the main reason for the split, Ferrero firmly denied it was due to financial issues or business conflicts. He stated, “No, it wasn’t about money, because money has never been my top priority.” Regarding incompatibility between tennis academies, he said, “I hope not. We never saw each other as competitors, nor did we force him to train at Bruguera’s academy.”

Regarding the real cause of the breakup, Ferrero admitted that they had significant disagreements on certain matters but preferred not to disclose the specific details.

Ferrero explained, “Everyone looks out for themselves: Carlos’s team acted from their perspective, and I from mine. We didn’t reach consensus on some issues. Maybe if we had sat down and talked, it could have been resolved, but ultimately, we never had that conversation and decided to end the partnership. That’s the truth. There are details I can’t share, but disagreements existed, and in the end, we chose to part ways.”

However, sources close to the team revealed that the irreconcilable conflict mainly stemmed from differing views on managing the player’s professional career.

Regarding the controversial remark—“I thought everything could continue”—Ferrero said their relationship was very good throughout the season, and they never had any arguments. Thus, when the season ended in Turin, everyone actually expected the cooperation to continue. But what happened afterward, leading to the split, was a surprise to him. The initial intention was indeed to continue, which is why he made that statement in the announcement.

Looking back on this extraordinary mentor-student journey—from a naive 15-year-old boy to a Grand Slam men’s singles champion; from grinding through challenger tournaments to showcasing talent and brilliance on the Grand Slam final stage—Ferrero admitted he gave his all but remains grateful for the many beautiful memories he takes away. For the future, all he can offer is his blessings.

Ferrero continued, “I put my soul into this project, dedicating a huge amount of time, energy, and passion. I am very thankful for this experience. At 15, you see potential but can never foresee everything ahead. Now that the dream has come true, I feel only peace and fulfillment.”

Many say Ferrero is not just Alcaraz’s coach but more like his “second father.” To this, Ferrero smiled faintly but then sighed, saying, “That question should be answered by him. I just try to be the person they need.”

When asked about the impact of this split on Alcaraz, Ferrero’s eyes showed a hint of emptiness and confusion. He said, “Possibly, sudden changes are always complicated.” Then he shifted to a firm tone, stating, “From a tennis perspective, I believe Carlos has the ability to overcome this and enter the Australian Open in great shape. Samuel knows him very well; he has been assisting me during training and has gained much experience this year, capable of leading independently.”

He also revealed that before leaving, the new season’s preparation plan was already set and fully handed over to Samuel. About the coach who will replace him by Alcaraz’s side, he said, “He’s very good, excellent. He understands everything clearly, so no adjustments are needed.”

Parting so quickly, will these two have a chance to reunite in the future? Ferrero’s eyes reflected some uncertainty, but then he expressed hope, saying, “Of course! I haven’t closed that door. I wish him all the best and sincerely believe he has the potential to become one of the greatest players in history.”

Regarding his short-term plans, Ferrero denied rumors of joining Sinner’s team, emphasizing that he still needs several months to adjust himself. When the host asked what if Sinner invites him in the future, Ferrero’s thoughtful reply was, “That’s for later, but now is not the time.” He also confirmed receiving other coaching offers but declined them all, admitting, “Because my heart is still there.”

Ferrero’s interview deeply moved many fans. Some expressed, “Regardless, their split is regrettable and touching. Perhaps only by parting can both become better versions of themselves—blooming from regret and quietly leaving the stage at the end. Maybe this is the fate of life.”

More rational netizens commented, “Let it end here. These meaningless debates should stop! The outcome is already decided; many should look forward instead of constantly looking back.”

Pain, blessings, calmness, fulfillment, and hope— for Ferrero, leaving means not only parting from his most treasured pupil but also saying goodbye to a habit, to a part of his own soul. Although hearing this makes us weary, it’s hard not to be touched by such complex, intertwined emotions. Is it really that easy to cut, let go, and move on?(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)