Carlos Alcaraz and Juan Carlos Ferrero have enjoyed remarkable unity since they first joined forces in 2019.
After all, having already claimed four Grand Slam titles and a number of other elite trophies, they are showing no signs of slowing down.
The nature of their relationship was further unveiled in a recent Netflix documentary, in which the youngster’s 2024 season was captured on film from a behind-the-scenes angle.
There, we saw the closeness of the two in much greater detail, thus explaining the success they have shared.
Carlos Alcaraz, both in public and when alone, seems to be keen to express his admiration for Ferrero.
Carlos Alcaraz praises his coach Juan Carlos Ferrero
Speaking to Roland Garros’ official website, Alcaraz opened up not only on his relationship with the tournament itself, but on his coaching staff too.
After all, Juan Carlos Ferrero remains a well-respected figure in the tennis community, not least by his pupil.
Asked about him specifically, the 22-year-old was glowing in his praise for the man who has moulded his career.
Alcaraz claimed: ‘Yes, I saw some photos, videos and highlights of his games too, but not so much. From what I heard from other players, he was really very strong, solid behind his line. Very strong in return too, but I think his best weapon was his way of moving: he moved very well, and I sometimes dream of having the same game as him.
‘I think he was a more complete player than I am today.’
Carlos Alcaraz handed kind draw at Roland Garros
Alcaraz and Ferrero will be hoping that their partnership can add another major title to their sprawling network of success, as they kickstart yet another French Open campaign next week.
This time, he will enter the Parisian gates as an overwhelming favourite to take the men’s crown again and defend his title.
This plight has been made even easier given the nature of his draw, which was revealed earlier today. Jack Draper also received a dream Roland Garros draw, but the two are on opposite sides of the draw. This makes an Italian Open rematch unlikely.
He kickstarts his tournament against the old but adored Kei Nishikori, with Giovani Mpetshi Perricard the first true test he is set to face in the third round.
One of Ben Shelton or Stefanos Tsitsipas awaits in the Round of 16 before a meeting with Casper Ruud and Tommy Paul beckons in the quarter-finals. Thus far, there is nobody who stands out as a monster threat for Alcaraz.
Only once he reaches the final would he face his toughest test, as it should be, with Jannik Sinner expected to await him.
