Carlos Alcaraz’s coach sends ominous warning after the Spaniard’s French Open triumph

Juan Carlos Ferrero has sent the ominous warning that Carlos Alcaraz is “far from” reaching his maximum level after his victory at the 2024 French Open.

The former world No 1, who has coached Alcaraz since 2018, revealed the biggest improvement the Spaniard can make is developing the “mental consistency” that will allow him to maintain his best level for longer.

Alcaraz secured his third Grand Slam title by defeating world No 4 Alexander Zverev in five sets in the final at Roland Garros on Sunday.

The world No 2 has become the youngest man to complete the ‘Surface Slam’ by winning a Grand Slam title on each of tennis’ three surfaces.

The 21-year-old is next set to compete at the Queen’s Club Championships, where he will aim to defend the title he won in 2023. He will then seek to defend his Wimbledon crown.

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Ferrero, who won the French Open in 2003, explained what impressed him about Alcaraz’s maiden Roland Garros title run and identified the way in which his pupil can improve the most.

“This tournament has given Carlos a lot of strength and confidence,” the Spaniard told L’Equipe .

“In the last two matches he needed to display his best tennis, but it is true that he had too many ups and downs. What I liked most is the maturity he had to find solutions as only he knows how.

“We need him to have a more stable game so that he can close the games sooner. I believe that he has not yet reached his maximum level, far from it.

“He can progress in many things, but the fundamental thing is that mental consistency that allows him to play at a very high level for a long time.

“That is something that he does not have right now, and on which we are working a lot. I think it will come as he gains more experience.

“We know that every tournament in which he competes, he will be one of the favourites. Obviously, the Grand Slams are our big priority, but we have to continue improving.

“It is important that he remains relaxed so that the pressure of being one of the best [does] not weigh too much on him, and he can continue playing his best tennis.”

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