Flavio Cobolli has revealed that he considered asking Juan Carlos Ferrero to coach him, describing the former mentor of Carlos Alcaraz as the best coach in the world, SPORT reported on Wednesday.
The Italian world number six acknowledged that his team evaluated the possibility of hiring Ferrero after the Spanish coach ended his successful partnership with Alcaraz. Cobolli prepares to compete in the ATP Finals in Turin, while Ferrero begins a new professional chapter with American player Ben Shelton.
Cobolli’s father, Stefano Cobolli, previously attempted to hire the Spanish coach on multiple occasions. The player admitted that he also nearly reached out directly when Ferrero became available on the market.
“We always said that if Ferrero became free, we would try to contact him,” Cobolli said, according to SPORT. “I even tried to send him a text message, but I never managed to do it.”
Comparing Ferrero to Soccer Managers
Cobolli drew a parallel between the Spanish coach and two of soccer’s most successful managers when discussing the high standards required to work with him.
“Asking him to train me is something too big. It’s like Ancelotti or Guardiola, he always makes his players improve,” Cobolli said, as reported by SPORT.
Ferrero brings an extensive resume to his upcoming partnership with Shelton, having guided Alcaraz to multiple Grand Slam titles and numerous tournament victories. That track record has cemented his reputation across the ATP Tour.
Cobolli reflects on ATP Finals preparation
Cobolli arrives in Turin for the season-ending tournament following the best year of his professional career. He reached the world number six ranking during the 2026 season and secured his qualification for the Inalpi Arena event.
The Italian player addressed recent physical concerns that forced him to retire during a match in Vienna against Matteo Berrettini and withdraw from the Paris Masters. He confirmed those muscle issues are resolved.
“Taking a break allowed me to recharge the batteries,” Cobolli said, according to SPORT.
“Jannik and Carlos continue to be the strongest, in my opinion,” Cobolli said, as reported by Punto de Break.
Key questions about the 2026 ATP Finals
When do the 2026 ATP Finals take place in Turin?
The 2026 ATP Finals are scheduled to run from November 15 to November 22, 2026, at the Inalpi Arena in Turin, Italy.
Who is Juan Carlos Ferrero coaching next?
Juan Carlos Ferrero will begin a new coaching partnership with American tennis player Ben Shelton following the conclusion of his tenure with Carlos Alcaraz.
What ranking did Flavio Cobolli reach during the 2026 season?
Flavio Cobolli reached a ranking of number six in the world during the 2026 season, earning his first appearance at the ATP Finals.
Which players did Cobolli compare Juan Carlos Ferrero to?
Cobolli compared Ferrero’s managerial impact to soccer coaches Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola, noting that the Spanish coach consistently elevates his players’ performance levels.
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