Juan Carlos Ferrero criticizes Novak Djokovic for lack of fair play with Carlos Alcaraz

At the Australian Open 2025, renowned Spanish coach Juan Carlos Ferrero, who is currently managing the career of young prodigy Carlos Alcaraz, expressed his outrage towards Novak Djokovic, accusing him of a lack of sportsmanship in his clash with the Spaniard in the quarter-finals of the tournament.

A victory with controversy

In a match full of excitement, Novak Djokovic managed to prevail over Carlos Alcaraz, securing his place in the semi-finals and consolidating his position as the player with the most Grand Slam titles in history. However, the match was not free of controversy, with several refereeing decisions and moments of tension that raised suspicions about the Serbian’s behaviour.

Ferrero, visibly upset, was quick to point out what he considered to be unsportsmanlike behaviour on the part of Djokovic. According to the coach, the Serbian tennis player used tactics aimed at distracting Alcaraz, including excessive pauses between points and gestures intended to intimidate the young Spaniard.

Strong statements

“This is not the kind of example we want for professional tennis. Djokovic is a great champion, but winning at all costs, without respecting your opponent, is not fair play. Carlos deserved a fairer treatment on the court,” Ferrero said in a press conference after the match.

The coach also mentioned that his pupil, despite his youth, showed great maturity by not responding to provocations. “Carlos is 21 years old, but he proved to be a gentleman on the court. This is something that Djokovic should remember: respect for the opponent is as important as victory,” added Ferrero.

Reactions from the public and the press

Ferrero’s comments have sparked a wide debate in the tennis world. While some defend Djokovic, arguing that his actions are within the rules, others support the Spanish coach’s words, considering that great champions must be examples of sportsmanship on and off the court.

Carlos Alcaraz himself avoided entering into the controversy and thanked his fans for their unconditional support. “Every match is a lesson, and this one was no exception. I will continue working to give my best,” the young tennis player commented on his social networks.

A call for respect in tennis

The incident between Djokovic and Alcaraz reopens the debate on the limits of fair play in professional tennis. For Juan Carlos Ferrero, what happened at the Australian Open should not be repeated. “Players have a responsibility beyond winning titles. It is about inspiring respect, especially for the new generations,” concluded the coach.

Meanwhile, attention remains focused on Djokovic’s performance in the tournament and on Alcaraz’s response, who promises to come back stronger in the upcoming challenges of the professional circuit.