Former world No. 1 and French Open champion Juan Carlos Ferrero has broken his silence following reports that he will join Ben Shelton's coaching team for the 2027 season. The news, first reported by Tennishead, indicates the Spanish tennis legend is set to work with the rising American star beginning in two years' time.
Ferrero, who currently coaches Carlos Alcaraz, has not publicly confirmed the details of the arrangement. The 44-year-old Spaniard reached the top ranking in 2003 and won the Roland Garros title that same year. Since transitioning to coaching, he has guided Alcaraz to multiple Grand Slam titles and the world No. 1 ranking.
Shelton, 24, has emerged as one of the ATP Tour's most exciting talents, known for his powerful serve and aggressive baseline game. The American reached the US Open semifinals in 2023 and has cracked the top 20 in the world rankings. A partnership with Ferrero would represent a significant addition to his development team as he targets major titles.
Neither Ferrero's camp nor Shelton's representatives have issued official statements regarding the reported 2027 coaching arrangement. The tennis world will be watching closely to see how this potential collaboration materializes and what impact it may have on both the Spanish coach's current commitments and the American player's trajectory.
