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Six-time Grand Slam winner Carlos Alcaraz has split with his coach Juan Carlos Ferrero in a shock move.

Alcaraz, 22, has collaborated with his fellow Spaniard since he was a youth, but stated on Wednesday that the duo have "decided to end their collaboration" before the 2026 season.

No explanation has been offered by Alcaraz nor Ferrero has provided a explanation for the break.

World number one Alcaraz has yet to indicated if he intends to find a successor for Ferrero.

"Thank you for making youthful ambitions into realities," Alcaraz remarked in a message.

"Our journey began this journey when I was very young, and throughout all this time you've been by my side on an extraordinary journey, on and off the court.

"It has been a pleasure to experience each moment of it immensely with you."

Ferrero, 45, is a one-time world number one. He nurtured Alcaraz's talent at his academy near Murcia before leading him to all six major championship titles.

The Implications for The Champion's Path

This unexpected coaching change marks the conclusion of a trophy-laden partnership that defined the early career of one of tennis's biggest names.

• The search for a replacement mentor will be a critical decision for Alcaraz as he aims to build upon his major haul.
• Fans and pundits will monitor how this change impacts his performance in the coming months.
• The influence of Ferrero's work is undeniable, having ushered a talented youngster to the pinnacle of the sport.