"With all due respect to the other competitors, Djokovic is Djokovic—one of the greatest of all time. So, we have to focus on ourselves. Alcaraz is playing excellent, confident tennis, but I wouldn't say he's the clear favorite," Ferrero stated at a US Open press conference on 3/9.

He recalled the memory from 8 months prior, when Alcaraz lost to Djokovic in the Australian Open quarterfinals. "This isn't about revenge, but we're eager to face Djokovic again. That match was painful. After Alcaraz took the first set, it seemed like his injury might be serious, but in the end, Djokovic played exceptionally well," Ferrero commented.

Djokovic and Alcaraz share a moment after their Australian Open quarterfinal match in 1/2025. Photo: Reuters

Djokovic and Alcaraz share a moment after their Australian Open quarterfinal match in 1/2025. Photo: Reuters

Alcaraz's coach is also wary of Djokovic's ability to overcome difficult situations. Naturally, the Serbian star is slowing down, but his competitive instincts remain sharp. In the art of competition, he's unparalleled.

However, Ferrero believes the conditions in New York could favor Alcaraz. He explained: "In Melbourne, the match was at night, and almost every shot from Djokovic was perfect. In New York, I think we'll play at 3 PM, and these conditions suit Alcaraz better."

After losses to Jannik Sinner at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, Djokovic admitted the journey to those major matches took a toll, nearly emptying his "fuel tank." Indeed, at 38, the Serbian player has recently struggled in long matches.

Therefore, Ferrero's strategy for Alcaraz against Djokovic is to increase the tempo and wear down his opponent. "I don't think Alcaraz should be overly fixated on Djokovic. He needs to push Djokovic to the limit, until the match becomes physically too difficult, too demanding. That's what we're aiming for," he said.

However, Djokovic has a knack for reversing seemingly impossible situations and has escaped defeat many times. The consistency of the 22-year-old's groundstrokes will be crucial.

"In recent matches, Djokovic has played aggressively from the baseline, fought tenaciously, and made few errors. But we believe Alcaraz's consistently high speed will create openings and gradually drain his opponent's energy. These 5-set matches require long-term planning. After three hours, fatigue sets in, and in that respect, I think Alcaraz has a slight advantage due to his youth," Ferrero added.

Coach Ferrero guides Alcaraz during a training session. Photo: EFE

Coach Ferrero guides Alcaraz during a training session. Photo: EFE

The Spanish coach believes his compatriot is in "peak condition, mentally strong, without the ups and downs, and reaching his full potential."

In fact, both in Cincinnati and in his first five US Open matches, Alcaraz hasn't faced any obstacles, demonstrating improvement, focus, and control from start to finish.

"Alcaraz is still very young, despite his experience. He's still maturing and improving. Bit by bit, he's shown progress, especially at this year's US Open. He only makes 5, 6, or 7 errors per set. That's a difference from before. His serve and forehand are also significantly better. If a player doesn't improve in three years... then his coach must be pretty bad," Ferrero joked, referring to himself.

According to Ferrero, his student's serve is highly effective, thanks to increased arm and wrist flexibility. Alcaraz averages 6 aces per match, with a first-serve percentage of 64%, winning 84% of first-serve points and 68% of second-serve points. He has also won 68 of 69 service games and saved seven of eight break points.

These improvements came after Alcaraz and his team reviewed his Wimbledon final loss to identify areas for improvement. The Spanish player also opted out of the Canadian tournament, held just two weeks after Wimbledon. This break allowed him to recharge and confidently prepare for the US Open.

"Alcaraz arrived here much fresher than last year. That break was very beneficial. Between Roland Garros and Wimbledon, everything was very intense. The break helped him de-stress, spend time with loved ones, and maintain a relaxed state of mind to continue competing at his best," Ferrero explained.

Carlos Alcaraz surprises Arthur Rinderknech with a behind-the-back shot, forcing an error into the net during their US Open round of 16 match at Arthur Ashe Stadium, New York on 30/9/2025. Photo: AFP

Carlos Alcaraz surprises Arthur Rinderknech with a behind-the-back shot, forcing an error into the net during their US Open round of 16 match at Arthur Ashe Stadium, New York on 30/9/2025. Photo: AFP

However, Djokovic is still capable of turning any situation around. Ferrero predicts that in the face of Alcaraz's potential dominance, the Serbian player might adopt a more aggressive approach, shortening points and coming to the net more often, rather than engaging in a physical battle. He cautioned his student to be adaptable: "Be prepared for any changes in technique, tactics, and emotions, especially remembering Melbourne, where Djokovic seemed defeated but then revived."

"As I always tell Alcaraz, he needs to have a plan A, a plan B, and even a plan C," Ferrero emphasized. "Because against Djokovic, you can never be complacent."

Compiled by Hoang Thong