The start of the new season will be characterized by an additional source of pressure for Carlos Alcaraz.
In addition to being the current world number 1 and having to defend his position from the onslaught of Jannik Sinner, the 22-year-old Spaniard will also have to prove that he can win without his huge mentor Juan Carlos Ferrero.
As everyone knows, their collaboration has abruptly ended after more than seven years and the star from Murcia will only be accompanied by Samuel Lopez as a coach in Australia. The six-time Grand Slam champion has become a top-tier player thanks to 'Juanki' and it is likely that he will need some time to get used to this new situation, but the Australian Open represents one of his main goals in 2026 being the only Major title he is still missing.
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Alcaraz wants to continue to shine
Carlitos is back from the most brilliant season of his entire career, having finally found continuity and regularity by decreasing the number of ups and downs. He also showed significant improvements in indoor conditions and reached the final at the Nitto ATP Finals in Turin, where his performance against Sinner was also affected by an injury (which forced him to miss the Davis Cup Finals in Bologna).
Some former players and insiders fear that the world number 1 could lose confidence and motivation without Ferrero by his side.
However during a recent interview with 'RNE', the latter curtly ruled out this possibility: He wont lose his way because I know him well and he knows whats good for him and what isnt. Carlos loves to compete; he loves playing in tournaments and fighting for big titles, and I dont see him getting bored with tennis. Maybe in 10 or 12 years, but right now its the complete opposite. This situation isnt ideal heading into the Australian Open, but in terms of tennis skill and talent, hes more than capable of winning.
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Carlos' first match of the new year will be an exhibition against Sinner scheduled in Seoul on January 10.
