Carlos Alcaraz has divided opinion after announcing he is parting ways with Juan Carlos Ferrero.
Alcaraz has been coached by Ferrero since the age of 16, with the 2003 French Open champion taking his fellow Spaniard from a junior to the best player in the world.
This coaching partnership has seen Alcaraz win six Grand Slam titles alongside Ferrero, and become the world number one.
Alcaraz’s decision to split with Ferrero as the top ranked ATP player in the world has caused a huge reaction, and Serena Williams’ former coach has now given his reaction.
Rick Macci reacts to Carlos Alcaraz’s decision to split from Juan Carlos Ferrero
Alcaraz has only ever had one coach in his career, and there is now a lot of speculation about what is next for the 22-year-old.
The former coach of both Serena and Venus Williams, Rick Macci, is often vocal with his opinions about the sport on social media and he has now given his verdict on Alcaraz’s decision.
Macci revealed that he had been asked about the situation, and explained that he supported it because it was made by Alcaraz.
He wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter), “Asked about the Alcaraz coaching change. He made the right decision because it was his decision.
“The past success was an amazing win/win. The player has to feel it to deal it. Carlos has his reasons to change the channel as he is the one with the remote control.”
Rick Macci says what you need to do when coaching Carlos Alcaraz
The Williams sisters are not the only top players who Macci has coached, having also worked with Maria Sharapova, Andy Roddick and Jennifer Capriati.
When commenting further on Alcaraz’s situation, he suggested that the Spaniard needs a coach who will sit back more and let him operate with a way of freedom.
“Coaching someone like Carlos cuts both ways,” said Macci. “You have to let him use his imagination but cannot say it is low % if he misses. Fine line between courage and stupidity. The Spanish Magician genius has landed him in the pole position.”
Macci added, “Many people stunned about the Alcaraz coaching change. When you’re number one and been with someone seven years and unplug the main guy everybody should be jolted but not a shock. He has two coaches and Carlos wants more freedom and overall say in who he is going to pay.”
While he is no longer working with Ferrero, Alcaraz still has Samuel Lopez as a coach on his team.
Lopez is expected to take charge for the Australian Open, while Alcaraz seeks a replacement to fill Ferrero’s vacancy.
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