Has Alcaraz sparked a coaching shake-up? Another male tennis star parts ways with a veteran coach!

While fans are still digesting the shocking news of world No.1 Alcaraz and his longtime coach Ferrero parting ways, another recognizable name appeared on social platforms—Dimitrov. The Bulgarian player has discreetly announced the conclusion of his lengthy partnership with Daniel Vallverdú.

In tennis, stability is often considered a rare luxury. That makes Dimitrov’s decision especially significant. After all, Vallverdú was no ordinary coach; he accompanied Dimitrov through various phases of his career, witnessing his highs, lows, and comeback journey. Therefore, this farewell carries a profound meaning.

“Eight years! Both on and off the court, our journey together has been incredible. Thank you for the lessons, laughter, and memories we shared. I appreciate your belief in me and pushing me to be my best. You will always be a part of my story. Wishing you all the best on your next chapter.”

Dimitrov first brought Vallverdú into his team in June 2016, a partnership that lasted until 2019 before they parted ways. But like many relationships in tennis, it wasn’t a complete goodbye. In 2022, Dimitrov reached out once again—the familiar call brought Vallverdú back. This marked perhaps the most crucial phase of Dimitrov’s later career.

In 2017, Dimitrov reached the Australian Open semifinals and won the ATP Finals in November, his most significant career title, rising to world No.3. Vallverdú, the Venezuelan coach, was the team leader when Dimitrov claimed his first Masters title in Cincinnati.

In a 2017 interview, Dimitrov praised Vallverdú highly, thanking him for helping him return to his peak form: “Vallverdú deserves a lot of credit. He joined my team at a critical moment a few years ago. I mean, everyone who’s been part of my team deserves recognition.”

This recent split comes just months after Dimitrov parted ways with another coach, Jamie Delgado. So, what was it like for Vallverdú working with Dimitrov? Back in 2017, he explained why the Bulgarian player is one of the best on the tour.

“Most importantly, Grigor is a very hard worker. Since we started working together, he has put in a lot of effort. I’m very satisfied with how he approaches training and his work; I don’t need to push him. He understands that giving his all makes achieving results easier. He played in the top ten under immense pressure. Maybe he didn’t always give 100%, which is even harder. But that’s part of his growth.”

Vallverdú also compared Dimitrov to other players he has coached, including Murray, and revealed that Dimitrov was very receptive to his advice and knowledge.

For Dimitrov, this decision comes at a delicate crossroads. He now must maintain his upward momentum without the coach who probably knows him better than almost anyone on tour. For Vallverdú, it’s another turning point in a coaching career defined by adaptability.

The duo closed this chapter on Instagram with mutual respect, despite the uncertainties ahead. Currently ranked 44th in the world, Dimitrov holds an 18-11 record for the 2025 season. He reached the later stages of several tournaments this year and demonstrated a high level against many top opponents. Did you know? If he hadn’t retired in the fourth round of Wimbledon 2025 due to a chest injury, Dimitrov might well have stopped Sinner from winning the title.

Could the lack of consistent results have forced Dimitrov to make this bold choice? We don’t know. But within the past 48 hours, the tennis world has witnessed more than one daring decision. Alcaraz recently announced on social media his split with longtime coach Ferrero, thanking him for turning him from a rising star into a superstar.

Ferrero then posted a lengthy message expressing his hope to continue working together. Soon after, reports emerged revealing major disagreements between him and Alcaraz’s father regarding the player’s career planning. More recent news suggests that delays in contract signing and failed negotiations were the real reasons behind Alcaraz and Ferrero’s split.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Spark)