Ben Shelton and Juan Carlos Ferrero will begin working together during the 2027 season, following months of speculation about the Spanish coach’s next partnership. The collaboration was confirmed by both men on November 1, coming as a surprise after Shelton had rarely been mentioned among the potential candidates.
Shelton, currently ranked No. 4 on the ATP Tour, hopes Ferrero can help him pursue Grand Slam success. Speaking to TNT Sports, the American praised Ferrero’s experience as both a former world No. 1 player and a highly regarded coach.
Shelton later explained to Sky Sports Tennis’ Ryan Harrison that he wants to become a more well-rounded player. He said Ferrero’s experience, combined with the input of his father, would provide a strong foundation for his development.
The American specifically highlighted clay-court tennis as an area where Ferrero could help him improve. Shelton said he wanted to develop the skills required to compete at the highest level on every surface and reduce the errors in his clay-court game.
Before joining forces with Ferrero, Shelton will play two more tournaments with his father as his main coach. He is due to compete at the Paris Masters, where he will face the winner of Cameron Norrie’s match against Matteo Arnaldi in the second round.
Shelton will then travel to Turin for the ATP Finals, where he will attempt to win the year-end tournament for the first time in his career.
Sources: Tennis365.