TRENDING First CFP rankings NFL execs talk trades What MLB's labor proposal means Week 9 Waiver Wire NFL Power Rankings Story by Story by Andy Roddick offers an extra reason why Juan Carlos Ferrero wants to coach Ben Shelton Wendi Oliveros · The Big Lead Thu, November 5, 2026 at 1:09 AM UTC · 2 min read About Our Ads Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tennis world is still reeling from the blockbuster news that Carlos Alcaraz's former coach Juan Carlos Ferrero (JCF) is coaching Ben Shelton in 2027.
Theories were circulating for months who JCF would coach, and none of them involved Shelton.
On a recent episode of his Served podcast, Andy Roddick offers added motivation for JCF to coach Shelton.
MORE: What does Ben Shelton gain by hiring Carlos Alcaraz's former coach?
Aug 13, 2026; Montreal, QC, Canada; Ben Shelton (USA) winner of the singles final holds his trophy at IGA Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
Shelton is the ATP World No. 4 player. He played in his first career Grand Slam final in 2026 at the US Open after defeating Carlos Alcaraz in an epic quarterfinal.
JCF is a great coach, and as a former ATP World No. 1 and French Open champion, Roddick believes he can help Ben and his dad Bryan get Ben to that level on the duo's weakest surface, clay.
Roddick thinks JCF also wants to help Shelton defeat Alcaraz on the biggest tennis courts in the world. He also wants to be instrumental in breaking the American men's Grand Slam championship drought at 23 years and counting.
MORE: Trinity Rodman shares her recent tennis accomplishment with boyfriend Ben Shelton
Spain's young star Rafael Jodar was a logical pick. He turned pro in 2025. Jodar is 20 years old and has one ATP title win. He has no team to speak of; his father is the only person in his box during matches.
JCF and the Shelton family partnership will be one of the interesting storylines to watch at the 2027 Australian Open where Alcaraz will try to defend his title.
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Source: Sports
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