Carlos Alcaraz faced a major setback ahead of the much-anticipated Australian Open 2024 as his coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, will not be able to travel with him, reported Spanish news outlet MARCA on Sunday.
Alcaraz, 20, emerged as one of the best players in the world and already has two Grand Slams — US Open and Wimbledon — to his name. The Spaniard would be aiming for his first major in Australia but the setback he suffered today could create problems for him.
Ferrero is recovering from an arthroscopy on his left knee due to which he will not be able to travel alongside the rising star. He is to remain on the sidelines and will join Alcaraz in the Masters 1000 in Indiana Wells from March 6 to 17.
Alcaraz, accompanied by his agent Alberto Molina, is set to participate in an exhibition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. However, a change in coaching personnel is on the horizon as Samuel Lopez is expected to take on the role of coach for the Australian Open.
While Lopez is currently coaching Pablo Carreno, he has previously worked with Alcaraz during the Queen's Open 500, where the young talent clinched the title.
During the South American tour in February, Antonio Martínez Cascales will step in as Alcaraz's coach for the tournaments in Buenos Aires (February 12 to 18) and Rio de Janeiro (February 19 to 25). This strategic coaching adjustment aims to provide optimal support for Alcaraz as he navigates through these crucial tournaments.
The dynamic changes in Alcaraz's coaching team reflect a thoughtful approach to enhance his performance on the international tennis stage, showcasing a strategic and adaptive mindset as he continues to make waves in the tennis world.
Alcaraz is scheduled to undergo training sessions next week alongside Flavio Cobolli, the Italian player currently ranked 101. Additionally, on Thursday, the 21st, Alcaraz will undergo a height assessment in preparation for his participation in the Ferrero Tennis Academy, where he will join Jannik Sinner for preseason training in Alicante.
