Carlos Alcaraz is one of two Spaniards to have won the Australian Open title.
The other? Rafael Nadal, of course.
Nadal won two Australian Open titles (2009, 2022), defeating Roger Federer and Daniil Medvedev in the respective finals.
Spain now has two Australian Open champions, and the nation couldn’t be happier.
Will Carlos Alcaraz win the Calendar Slam in 2026?
If not, which Grand Slam is he going to fail to win?
Well, maybe they could…
Nadal’s uncle and former coach, Toni Nadal, has shared what he didn’t like about Alcaraz’s Australian Open win.
Toni Nadal ‘bothered’ by Carlos Alcaraz not mentioning Juan Carlos Ferrero after Australian Open
Speaking to ‘RadioEstadio‘, Nadal revealed what bothered him about Alcaraz’s Australian Open winner’s speech.
“It bothered me, you cannot forget Juan Carlos’ work all those years,” he said.
“I would not have liked it if, when I left Rafa, he had acted like this with [Carlos] Moya.”
Nadal didn’t appreciate Alcaraz choosing not to mention his former coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, in his speech.
The pair split before the 2026 season, but won six Grand Slams and reached world number one together.
There was no mention of Ferrero in Alcaraz’s speech, as he instead focused on his current team.
Who surprised you the most at the Australian Open this year?
Did they surprise you in a positive or negative way?
On the flip side, Ferrero sent Alcaraz a message via his academy’s X account.
“So amazing journey,” the message read.
“So hard work!
“Congrats, Carlitos! Many more things yet to come.”
It’s impossible to know what really happened between Alcaraz and Ferrero.
The full details of their split remain private, as fans are left to wonder what went on behind the scenes.
What Juan Carlos Ferrero and Carlos Alcaraz said after their split
When the news first broke, Ferrero released the following statement on Instagram.
“Today is a difficult day. One of those when it’s hard to find the right words. Saying goodbye is never easy, especially when there are so many shared experiences behind it,” he said.
“We have worked hard, grown together, and shared unforgettable moments. I want to thank you for the time, the trust, the learning, and above all, for the people who have surrounded me throughout this journey.
“I take with me laughter, challenges overcome, conversations, support during difficult moments, and the satisfaction of having been part of something truly unique.
“Today, a very important chapter of my life comes to an end. I close it with nostalgia, but also with pride and excitement for what may come next. I know that everything I have lived has prepared me to be better.
“Thank you, Carlos, for the trust, the effort, and for making your way of competing make me feel so special. I wish you all the best, both professionally and personally.
“I would also like to thank the entire team for making my work easier throughout all these years. With you, I have learned that work is not just about tasks or results, but about the people who walk alongside you. Each and every one of you has left a mark on me that I will never forget.
“We have been an incredible team despite the difficulties, and I am sure you will continue to achieve great success.
“I wish I could have continued. I am convinced that good memories and good people always find a way to cross paths again.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
The phrase ‘I wish I could have continued’ led many to believe that Alcaraz made the decision, not Ferrero.
However, Alcaraz’s Instagram message to Ferrero seemed to tell another story.
Why do you think Carlos Alcaraz and Juan Carlos Ferrero split?
“It’s very difficult for me to write this post… After more than seven years together, Juanki and I have decided to end our time together as coach and player,” he said.
“Thank you for turning my childhood dreams into reality. We started this journey when I was just a kid, and throughout this time, you’ve accompanied me on an incredible adventure, both on and off the court. And I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every step of it with you.
“We reached the top, and I feel that if our sporting paths had to diverge, it should be from up there. From the place we always worked towards and always aspired to reach.
“So many memories are flooding back that choosing just one wouldn’t be fair. You’ve helped me grow as an athlete, but above all, as a person.
“And something I value immensely: I’ve enjoyed the process. That’s what I’ll take with me, the journey we’ve shared.
“Now, a time of change is upon us both, new adventures and new projects. But I’m certain that we’ll face them in the right way, giving our best, as we always have. Always adding value.
“I sincerely wish you all the best in everything that comes your way. I’m comforted by the knowledge that we gave our all, that we offered everything to each other. Thank you for everything, Juanki!”
Alcaraz clearly wasn’t affected too badly by their split, winning his first tournament without Ferrero in his corner.
Ferrero has yet to return to tennis, but is still involved in sport, and is working as a mental coach for young Spanish golfer Angel Ayora.
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