Carlos Alcaraz is preparing for a unique encounter at the upcoming ATP Finals as he faces his former coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero.
Ferrero, who split from Alcaraz in December 2025, has officially entered a coaching partnership with American player Ben Shelton, as reported by the ATP Tour.
The coaching arrangement includes a commitment to 12 tournaments annually, featuring the Grand Slams and the ATP Finals.
Alcaraz acknowledged the unusual nature of the impending reunion with his former mentor.
“It’s going to be strange; that’s the truth, because we haven’t seen each other in a long time. I’m going to give him a hug,” Alcaraz stated regarding the meeting.
Shelton, who will be coached by both Ferrero and his father, Bryan Shelton, recently shared that he proactively informed Alcaraz about the hiring decision.
The American noted that he reached out to the Spaniard before the news was made public to respect their long-standing professional history.
“Obviously I reached out to him before the news dropped,” Shelton said.
Shelton praised Alcaraz for his supportive response to the news.
According to Shelton, the seven-time Grand Slam champion expressed happiness for the new partnership and predicted significant improvements in Shelton’s game.
The two players previously crossed paths at the Paris Masters, where Alcaraz defeated Shelton in straight sets.
For the upcoming ATP Finals, the players are placed in separate groups.
Alcaraz is joined in the Ivan Lendl group by Daniil Medvedev, Flavio Cobolli, and Frances Tiafoe.
Shelton is in the John McEnroe group alongside Alexander Zverev, Arthur Fils, and Rafael Jodar.
Despite the competitive nature of the tournament, the focus remains on the professional transition involving Ferrero, who spent a year away from coaching following his departure from the Alcaraz camp.
The tennis community continues to monitor these developments through various outlets, including coverage from College Sports Network.