Not everyone can understand Carlos Alcaraz’s decision to part ways with coach Juan Carlos Ferrero.
Alcaraz announced his shock split from Ferrero last week, bringing an end to their seven-year partnership.
There have been a lot of questions over what the real reason for Alcaraz splitting from Ferrero is, with a lot of speculation floating around.
As he is the world number one, Alcaraz has received some criticism for this decision, and now his compatriot Garbine Muguruza has also admitted she has some confusion.
Garbine Muguruza reacts to Carlos Alcaraz’s split from Juan Carlos Ferrero
Muguruza, who beat both Williams sisters in major finals, was asked about the big topic of Alcaraz parting ways with Ferrero ahead of the 2026 season when speaking to Spanish radio station El Larguero.
Like many others, Muguruza admitted that her main feeling of discovering the news was surprise, questioning why he would make this decision when he is the world number one.
“A lot, a lot. I think everyone [was surprised], why?” questioned Muguruza. “Because Carlos is the world number one, right?
“What better season can he have than the one he’s had, finishing as world number one, winning eight tournaments, Grand Slams…It’s rare to make a change in such a good moment, no? When things are working, you don’t tend to change. So yes, very surprised, eager to know more.”
Muguruza added, “Not that many, I had like three [coaches]…One doesn’t consider changing the team when you feel you need a new voice or things aren’t going well.
“‘Wow, I’ve had a weak year, I haven’t achieved good results, I’m losing a lot. Or that coach doesn’t transmit to me what he used to transmit before. I need to close this cycle, look for someone with new ideas’.
“But it always comes from a not-so-good moment, not when you’re winning and you’re the world number one. That’s what’s strange, that’s why.”
Who would you like to see coach Carlos Alcaraz next?
Former Olympic medallist calls Carlos Alcaraz’s decision ‘outrageous’
Confusion around Alcaraz’s decision has continued, and even from people outside of tennis.
Former Olympic silver medallist basketballer Frederic Weis spoke about this on the RMC Sport’s Les Grandes Gueules du Sport radio show, and called the decision ‘outrageous’.
“What worries me is the ultimatum, the demand to respond within 48 hours,” said Weis. “It’s a very peculiar way of treating someone you’ve worked with for seven years. It’s outrageous.”
Why do you think Carlos Alcaraz and Juan Carlos Ferrero split?
Alcaraz will look to put these criticisms behind him ahead of the 2026 season, as he looks to make history at the Australian Open.
The Spaniard will be without Ferrero for the first time in his professional career in Australia, with Alcaraz being joined by Samuel Lopez.
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