Carlos Alcaraz considered Andy Murray as potential head coach in 2024: Reports

The current World No. 1 wanted to replace long-term coach Juan Carlos Ferrero with Murray in 2024.

In a revelation that has stunned the tennis world, reports from Spanish media indicate that Carlos Alcaraz‘s entourage seriously considered hiring three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray as head coach in late 2024, amid emerging tensions with longtime mentor Juan Carlos Ferrero.

According to sources cited by journalists like Jose Moron and outlets such as Puntodebreak, Alcaraz’s camp was frustrated with Ferrero’s strict, disciplinarian style clashing with the young star’s more relaxed approach, and hence explored replacing him even before their eventual split in December 2025.

Andy Murray, fresh off retirement in 2024, was viewed as an ideal candidate due to his tactical acumen, mental toughness, and prior expressed interest in coaching Alcaraz (dating back to 2022 interviews where he named the Spaniard among desired players).

The plan never materialized as Murray instead accepted a surprising role with Novak Djokovic ahead of the 2025 season, coaching the Serb through the Australian Open quarterfinals (where Djokovic defeated Alcaraz) before parting ways in May.

Samuel Lopez, who joined as assistant in late 2024 to ease tensions, will now stay on as interim head coach following the Ferrero breakup.

Also Read: Left-arm injury forces Jack Draper out of upcoming 2026 Australian Open

Given this new report, it remains to be seen if Alcaraz and Murray ever form a partnership in the future. The duo share a warm, respectful friendship built on mutual admiration and shared interests off the court.

The Spaniard has often praised Murray as an inspiration, dedicating emotional messages after his 2024 retirement.

They’ve bonded over golf, playing multiple rounds (including during Wimbledon preparations), with playful banter about scores, with Alcaraz jokingly claiming he “let” Murray win at times.

Carlos Alcaraz ahead of Australian Open 2026

Carlos Alcaraz has not entered the field list for Brisbane or Adelaide Open, and instead will play an exhibition event in South Korea, against Jannik Sinner, ahead of the Australian Open 2026.

He will look to complete his calendar slam at the Melbourne Park, a feat which has been previously accomplished by a rare pool of elite players.

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