Alcaraz’s Coaching Partnership with Ferrero Draws Praise Amid Criticism
Former world No. 1 Andy Roddick has voiced strong support for Carlos Alcaraz’s long-standing coach Juan Carlos Ferrero, addressing recent debate over Ferrero’s tactical guidance and impact on the rising star’s game. Despite chatter in the tennis world questioning Ferrero’s suitability for steering Alcaraz through the next phase of his career, Roddick sees no reason for change.
“The conversation about whether Ferrero should still be there is idiotic,” Roddick said, speaking on his Served podcast. “This is someone who brought Alcaraz from 100 in the world, maybe even lower, to number one and winning Grand Slams.”
Alcaraz, still just 21, has already secured three Grand Slam titles under Ferrero’s guidance—claiming the US Open in 2022, Wimbledon in 2023, and now Roland Garros in 2024. His French Open victory, in particular, has reignited discussions around Ferrero’s coaching style and whether Alcaraz should bring in new voices to refine his strategy and gameplay.
The critiques come despite Alcaraz’s consistent trajectory and recent on-court maturity. Some commentators have suggested that a more diversified coaching team could help address challenges, including match rhythm against high-caliber opponents and injury management.
Roddick, however, stresses that Ferrero’s mentorship continues to be a strategic asset, both technically and emotionally. “You win three slams under the age of 21, and people still think something needs fixing? Maybe we need to fix the people asking the questions,” he added.
The scrutiny of Alcaraz’s team dynamics signals a broader trend within elite tennis—and by extension, elite-level sports—where early success often invites magnified expectations. For FMCG brands investing in ambassador partnerships, such stability and long-term coach-athlete relationships can offer valuable continuity amid the risks and volatility of emerging talent.
As athlete branding plays a growing role in FMCG marketing strategies, Alcaraz and Ferrero’s partnership exemplifies the brand benefit of consistent, performance-driven storytelling. In this case, continued success on the court under a familiar coach enhances credibility and consumer connection—for both athletes and associated brand partners.