Alcaraz criticized for neglecting his former coach

Without the support of his long-time coach Juan Carlos Ferrero, Carlos Alcaraz still excelled and won the Australian Open for the first time in his career.

Toni Nadal — uncle and longtime mentor of legend Rafael Nadal — criticized fellow Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz for failing to mention his former coach Juan Carlos Ferrero after winning the 2026 Australian Open, suggesting that the young Spanish player did not properly acknowledge the significant role Ferrero played in his career.

Alcaraz officially parted ways with Ferrero in December last year, ending a partnership that began in 2018 when he was just 16. Under the guidance of the former world No. 1, the Spanish player steadily rose to the top, winning major titles and becoming one of the finest players of his generation.

The 2026 Australian Open marked Alcaraz’s first Grand Slam since changing his coaching team. With Samuel Lopez as his new head coach, the 22-year-old impressively secured his first title at Melbourne Park, silencing many doubts about his decision to leave Ferrero.

During the trophy ceremony at Rod Laver Arena, Alcaraz thanked his current team and hinted at the pre-tournament rumors, but did not directly mention Ferrero. “It’s truly been an emotional journey full of ups and downs, and we overcame everything without paying attention to what people said before coming to Australia.”, Carlitos shared. “We just did our job… I’m genuinely grateful to everyone standing by me right now.”

According to Toni Nadal, Alcaraz should have shown more appreciation for his former mentor.

“Praising the current coach is good, but you also have to remember the other one. I don’t know how the relationship between Alcaraz and Ferrero ended, but hearing those words made me feel uncomfortable.”, Toni Nadal added. “Samuel Lopez has certainly done very well over the past two months, but Alcaraz cannot forget Ferrero’s contributions throughout the years.”

Toni Nadal also gave an example from his own family: “I wouldn’t like it if Rafa said similar things about Carlos Moya right after he left.”