Openness to coaching Sinner

Spanish tennis coach Juan Carlos Ferrero has addressed reports linking him to world No. 1 Jannik Sinner ahead of a potential return to the ATP Tour in 2027. Speaking during the launch of his autobiographical book Mentalidad Ganadora, the 46-year-old former world No. 1 confirmed that joining Sinner's coaching staff remains an open possibility. Ferrero ended his coaching partnership with world No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz in late 2025 after guiding the Spanish player from age 15. The coaching vacancy in Sinner's camp stems from reports indicating Australian coach Darren Cahill plans to step down. Ferrero noted that taking a role with Sinner would reflect his personal progression rather than animosity toward his former pupil.

“If in the future I were to join Jannik's team, it would never be to annoy Carlos.”

Project criteria and Cobolli refusal

Ferrero stressed that a full year has passed since his separation from Alcaraz, removing any perception that a move would be motivated by rivalry or resentment. He explained that he will only return to tour coaching for an inspiring and fulfilling project, preferring to remain at his tennis academy if suitable options do not emerge. Unlike his extensive development work with Alcaraz from junior levels, Ferrero stated he now prefers an established player whose stroke mechanics are already complete and who does not demand 200 percent daily effort. This selective stance previously led him to decline repeated coaching offers from other players on the ATP circuit. Stefano Cobolli, father and coach of world top-10 player Flavio Cobolli, stated that Ferrero declined their partnership requests three to four times across a two-year period, though he noted the door remains open.

Comparing Sinner and Alcaraz

When evaluating Sinner alongside Alcaraz, Ferrero described both competitors as extraordinary players while acknowledging the difficulty of separating them. He attributed greater competitive grit to Alcaraz while pointing to Sinner's recent tournament record across the tour, specifically his multiple Masters 1000 titles. Sinner currently holds five Grand Slam titles and ten Masters 1000 trophies, compared to seven Grand Slams and seven Masters 1000 titles for the 23-year-old Alcaraz. Ferrero also praised Sinner's coaching staff for expanding his tactical repertoire over the last three to four seasons. He noted that Sinner shifted from being primarily a powerful ball striker to incorporating slice shots, net play, and frequent down-the-line winners into his baseline game.

“Having the opportunity to work with two of the best players of this generation would be a great personal satisfaction.”

Carlos Alcaraz (Grand Slams)7

Jannik Sinner (Grand Slams)5

Jannik Sinner (Masters 1000)10

Carlos Alcaraz (Masters 1000)7

Carlos Alcaraz (Grand Slams)

7 titles

Jannik Sinner (Grand Slams)

5 titles

Jannik Sinner (Masters 1000)

10 titles

Carlos Alcaraz (Masters 1000)

7 titles

Data from the article text

Next steps toward 2027

Ferrero first indicated that his coaching comeback was taking shape during an appearance at the Martinez Valero stadium in Elche in September 2026. His projected timeline targets the 2027 season, coinciding with potential staffing changes across several top player teams as Cahill considers retiring from full-time tour coaching. Ferrero also offered praise for other coaching setups on tour, specifically naming Sinner's team, Alcaraz's current coach Samuel Lopez, and Alexander Zverev's staff. Until a formal commitment is finalised, the Spanish coach plans to remain based at his academy in Spain while evaluating long-term competitive opportunities.