Ben Shelton to hire Juan Carlos Ferrero as coach for 2027 season

American tennis player Ben Shelton has confirmed that Juan Carlos Ferrero will join his coaching staff starting in 2027. Ferrero, a former world number one, previously coached Carlos Alcaraz for seven years until their split in December 2025.

Shelton, currently ranked fourth in the world, intends for Ferrero to work alongside his father and longtime coach, Bryan Shelton, rather than replacing him. The American stated that Ferrero brings immense experience and wisdom that could make a significant difference in his career, specifically helping him improve his performance on clay courts.

Carlos Alcaraz, who recently won the ATP 500 in Vienna, reacted to the news by stating that Ferrero would be a great addition to Shelton’s team and would help elevate the American’s level of play. While some analysts, such as Rick Macci, have questioned if the move will address Shelton’s specific biomechanical flaws in his backhand and return of serve, the partnership is officially set to begin during the 2027 winter preparation.