Several tennis fans have called for a coaching change following Carlos Alcaraz’s quarterfinal exit from the 2025 Australian Open. The Spaniard is in a long-standing partnership with former French Open champion and veteran coach Juan Carlos Ferrero.

Carlos Alcaraz couldn’t maintain his momentum against Novak Djokovic at the Rod Laver Arena on Tuesday, January 21. Despite taking the first set 6-4 as Djokovic battled a left leg issue, the 21-year-old failed to capitalize. The Serb mounted a stunning comeback, claiming the next three sets 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 to advance to the semifinals in Melbourne.

Despite making a deep run in the tournament, several fans have called for the end of Carlos Alcaraz’s nearly six-year-long partnership with Juan Carlos Ferrero. A fan on X first pointed out that Ferrero’s coaching is no longer benefiting the four-time Major champion.

“It’s not about losing today. It’s just that the coaching is just not helping him anymore. You’ve got dudes that would die to coach you. Get a new voice. Ferrero did a great job, but it’s time,” they said.

Several fans reacted to the post with many echoing the sentiment. One fan wrote:

“He desperately needs a new voice in his team. He has to step up immediately and make some serious calls about his team like his rivals.”

Another fan criticized Alcaraz’s performance, urging him to improve his game and calling for a change in coach.

“Got up early watching Novak Djokovic bust Carlos’ a*s in what was a perfect match for the Serb. Honeymoon period for Alcaraz is over. He needs to mature up and take his game to another level. Maybe it’s time for a coach change? 🤷🏿‍♂️ Not impressed with him today #AusOpen,” they said.

“Yes, now is the time. All the top players have done it at some point in their careers,” third fan wrote.

A fan asked if Alcaraz’s coaches were facing difficulties in training him.

“Is it because he has surpassed the level of his coach and they can’t / don’t know how to help him?” They asked.

Several fans later reacted to a post by Tennis Channel on X. One fan, while recognizing Ferrero’s crucial contributions to the 21-year-old’s career, suggested a split, arguing that Alcaraz could benefit from a fresh perspective.

“I definitely give Ferrero credit for where he’s helped get Alcaraz to up to this point, but I’ve been thinking for a little while now that perhaps it’s time for a change. Sometimes you need a different perspective (new coach) to get you to that next level or that next stage,” they wrote.

“2 mins silence for those said Novak can’t win Alcaraz in 5 set matches,” a fan chimed in.

Alcaraz has achieved remarkable success in his partnership with Juan Carlos Ferrero. The 44-year-old began coaching Alcaraz when he was just 15, and together, they have won an impressive 15 tour-level titles, including four Grand Slams.

Notably, Alcaraz enlisted veteran coach Samuel Lopez for the 2025 season last December. He spoke highly of Lopez’s addition to his team, emphasizing the strong rapport between him and Ferrero.

Carlos Alcaraz is behind in the head-to-head against Novak Djokovic

The defeat in the Australian Open quarterfinals was Alcaraz’s fifth against the 24-time Major champion Novak Djokovic. With the victory, the Serb extended his lead in their head-to-head record to 5-3.

The 37-year-old also kept his pursuit of a record 25th Grand Slam title alive. It will be Djokovic’s 12th semifinal appearance at Melbourne Park, where he will face second seed Alexander Zverev.

Their encounter on Friday, January 24, will be their 13th meeting on tour, with Djokovic holding an 8-4 lead in their head-to-head record.