Why Rafael Nadal should coach Carlos Alcaraz next, World No. 1's childhood coach explains

Carlos Alcaraz's childhood coach, Carlos Santos, has opined that Rafael Nadal should step in as his coach following his split with Juan Carlos Ferrero. The 22-year-old parted ways with his long-time coach Ferrero a week ago. The dissolution of their partnership happened in the wake of Alcaraz's most successful season, during which he won eight titles, including two Majors.

The speculation surrounding the real reason behind their split continues even now. Alcaraz's childhood coach Santos recently had a chat with Eurosport Spain about his former protege's current predicament. In his view, Nadal would make an excellent coach for the Spanish youngster. He cited the 22-time Major champion's humility and character as the traits that would help Alcaraz and his team.

"And we’re not even talking about players like Rafa Nadal, who would be a fantastic coach for Carlitos. For his upbringing, his values, his character, his humility. That would be very beneficial for Carlos and those around him," Santos said.

Santos also stated that the new coach should also get along with the rest of Alcaraz's team. While taking up the gig, he should realize that it's not just about Alcaraz himself.

"But the new coach needs to be close to him and understand that Carlitos’s team is very important. He has to take responsibility for all of that. It’s not just about Carlitos, but also about everyone who’s part of the team. Whether they’re more or less competent, they’re there, and he has to accept that,” he added.

There's no word on who would be Alcaraz's new coach as of now. However, Samuel Lopez, who worked as an assistant coach under Ferrero, is still a part of Alcaraz's entourage and is handling all coaching responsibilities. However, if anyone steps in as Ferrero's replacement down the line, they will have some big shoes to fill considering how successful their partnership was.

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Carlos Alcaraz won all 6 of his Major titles under the guidance of Juan Carlos Ferrero

Juan Carlos Ferrero and Carlos Alcaraz at the US Open 2025. (Photo: Getty)

Juan Carlos Ferrero assumed the duty of Carlos Alcaraz's head coach in 2019. He made rapid improvements under the care of Ferrero, claiming three Challenger titles in 2020. He captured his maiden ATP title in 2021, and finished the season just outside the top 30.

Alcaraz attained global superstardom in 2022. He won two Masters 1000 titles in the first half of the season, and even beat Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic en route to the title in Madrid. His rise to the top culminated with his first Grand Slam crown at the US Open, which also clinched the No. 1 ranking for him.

Alcaraz has remained a dominant force in the sport ever since. With Ferrero in his corner, he won a total of 24 titles, including six Majors and eight Masters 1000 titles. Following their tremendous success in 2025, no one anticipated they would go their separate ways so soon. With a Career Grand Slam on the line at the Australian Open 2026, all eyes will be on Alcaraz's next move in the coming days.

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Edited by Rohit