An American news leak forced Juan Carlos Ferrero to accelerate his announcement regarding his return to the ATP circuit.
Sport reported that a premature disclosure rushed the reveal of the agreement between the Spanish coach and American player Ben Shelton.
“Sí, obviamente ya había cambiado el chip,” Ferrero said in an interview with MARCA, explaining how he had already shifted his mindset for the professional tour.
Ferrero faced his former player Carlos Alcaraz in the Paris Masters 1000 final while already assisting Shelton. Sport reported that the coach spent the week helping Shelton and his father, Bryan Shelton, prepare specific tactical aspects for matches.
“Era la primera vez en ocho años que tenía que pensar cosas para ir en su contra,” Ferrero told MARCA regarding the unusual dynamic of coaching against Alcaraz. “No en contra sino para intentar contrarrestar el juego de Carlos.”
Sport reported that the coach believes he can improve the American's on-court organization and shot selection.
“Saber que arma utilizar en cada momento,” Ferrero told MARCA, highlighting that power alone is insufficient without proper shot selection. “Ahora mismo se le escapan muchos puntos que están relativamente de su mano.”
The Spanish coach declined to comment on rumored contact with Jannik Sinner following the Italian’s split with Darren Cahill. Sport reported that Ferrero confirmed conversations with the family of Madrid prospect Rafa Jódar, though those discussions did not lead to a formal partnership.
“Sí, sí, he hablado con el padre, sobre todo del chaval, de cómo juega,” Ferrero told MARCA regarding the talks.
Sport reported that the former Alcaraz mentor will work alongside Bryan Shelton starting next season.
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