Carlos Alcaraz, the Indian Wells champion, is in high spirits as he prepares for the Miami Open, thanks to the guidance of his long-time coach Juan Carlos Ferrero. Ferrero had been absent from Alcaraz’s corner at the start of the season due to knee surgery, missing the Australian Open where the 20-year-old lost in the quarter-finals to Alexander Zverev.
However, the former world number one made a timely return to coach his Spanish compatriot during Alcaraz’s semi-finals run in Buenos Aires. Unfortunately, Alcaraz had to withdraw from his first match in Rio de Janeiro due to an ankle injury.
Despite the setbacks, Alcaraz clinched his first title of the season in California and credited 44-year-old Ferrero for his invaluable support. Alcaraz expressed his appreciation for Ferrero’s guidance, emphasizing the importance of smiling through challenges.
Reflecting on their relationship, Alcaraz shared, “He means a lot to me. It’s a great support when I have him in the box. His support is special to me. It’s been a long path together, six years now.”
He added, “We’ve done great work together. I spend a lot of time with him at tournaments and (outside) as well. We have a really good relationship in the professional part, but the personal part as well. I’ve learned a lot from him.”
The young talent, Alcaraz, aims to follow in the footsteps of greats like Roger Federer by completing the “Sunshine Double.” He is set to face either Aleksandar Vukic or Roberto Carballes Baena in his opening match at the Miami Open.
Expressing his excitement for the tournament, Alcaraz stated, “I’m playing great tennis. I’m really happy to be in Miami again, a special place, where I’ve shown great tennis in the past years. I’m feeling great physically and mentally. I’m ready for this tournament.”
With Ferrero by his side, Alcaraz is poised to make a strong impact in Miami and continue his impressive form on the ATP Tour. Fans eagerly anticipate his matches as he vies for another title under his coach’s guidance.
As the Miami Open kicks off, all eyes will be on Alcaraz as he strives to maintain his momentum and secure victories against tough opponents. The combination of Alcaraz’s talent and Ferrero’s experience promises an exciting tournament for tennis enthusiasts around the world.
Stay tuned for thrilling matches and inspiring performances from Alcaraz as he looks to make his mark on the prestigious Miami Open and further establish himself as a rising star in the tennis world.
(Reporting by Shrivathsa Sridhar in Bengaluru; Editing by Peter Rutherford)
