In a significant development for tennis fans, Carlos Alcaraz is set to welcome a new lead coach as Samuel Lopez takes over the reins from Juan Carlos Ferrero, with whom Alcaraz has enjoyed a successful partnership in recent years. As the current world No. 1, Alcaraz is looking to continue his domination in the sport heading into the 2026 season.
Lopez has been part of Alcaraz’s team since the previous season, initially working alongside Ferrero. Their collaboration proved fruitful, culminating in Alcaraz clinching two Grand Slam titles in 2025—specifically the French Open and the U.S. Open—and finishing the year at the top of the ATP rankings. Both Lopez and Ferrero were recognized for their contributions by being awarded Co-Coach of the Year at the recent ATP Awards.
In an interview, Lopez reflected on the synergy within the coaching team, emphasizing the importance of a relaxed and fun working environment. “The results came smoothly,” he stated, highlighting his long-standing connection with both Ferrero and Alcaraz, whom he has known since their early tennis days. This familiarity has fostered an atmosphere conducive to the player’s development.
Lopez noted that his fresh perspective could benefit Alcaraz, especially after the latter’s extensive tenure with Ferrero. “Maybe I freshened things up,” he remarked, underscoring the need for an evolving approach to coaching as Alcaraz grows and matures within the sport. He emphasized that effective communication about feelings and pressures—which Alcaraz began to articulate more following the Monte Carlo tournament—played a significant role in the player’s mental resilience on the tour.
Having celebrated his first Grand Slam victory at Roland Garros as a coach, Lopez expressed his enthusiasm for the challenges ahead, including the upcoming Australian Open. This tournament stands out as the only major title that has eluded Alcaraz thus far, marking a key focus for the new coaching dynamic.
Looking ahead, Lopez is intent on keeping Alcaraz motivated and hungry for further achievements. “You cannot rest on your laurels,” he said, indicating a commitment to pushing Alcaraz to strive for excellence continually. With a renewed coaching structure, including involvement from Alcaraz’s older brother, Alvaro, the team is poised to maintain the player’s momentum in the sport.
Interestingly, Lopez’s ties to the tennis world run deep; he also coached Ferrero during his competitive years and formerly worked with other Spanish talents, such as Nicolas Almagro. As the tennis season approaches, Alcaraz’s ability to adapt to this new coaching landscape will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
