Ferrero: Alcaraz could be the greatest in history

Juan Carlos Ferrero says he still believes Carlos Alcaraz can become the greatest player in tennis history, despite their split last December.

Ferrero and Alcaraz worked together for several years before Alcaraz reorganised his coaching team at the end of 2025. The Spaniard stressed that leaving the player’s camp does not change his assessment of Alcaraz’s talent.

At 23 years old, Carlos Alcaraz already holds seven Grand Slam titles. This season he missed Roland Garros and Wimbledon due to injury and was knocked out by Ben Shelton in the quarterfinals of the US Open.

Ferrero on Alcaraz and a new role with Shelton

“Yes, I already said that then, and just because I’m no longer with him doesn’t mean I’m going to change my mind. He has the qualities, technically he is excellent, he already is one of the best in history. I’ve always said that if he keeps the motivation and the discipline to do what he must at all times, he’ll have a chance,” Ferrero said.

Ferrero is due to become Ben Shelton’s coach and met the American in Paris last week. Assessing Shelton, Ferrero noted: “He already fights, you can see the final score 7:6, 7:5. With his aggressive tennis and the way he serves, it’s hard to imagine him losing easily. The key is that he competes well throughout the year. That’s something he’s somewhat lacking. He competes well, especially when he’s motivated, but then there can be certain periods during the season when he’s a little less consistent.”

Ferrero’s public backing leaves no doubt about his view of Alcaraz’s ceiling, while his move to Shelton’s team adds a new subplot to the next season as both players pursue consistency and more major titles.

Photo: press material from the event