There is an avalanche of big names on the table, and Roger Federer’s name obviously catches the attention of fans.
Federer with the assist 😄 pic.twitter.com/AXLgwH0jCX
— Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 19, 2024
Carlos Santos, who worked closely with Alcaraz during his formative years, recognized the romance of the idea while anchoring it in reality. The idea of Federer being world No. 1 is undoubtedly fascinating.
It combines the elegance of one era with the explosive brilliance of another, and it would drive the tennis world crazy. But as attractive as the concept may be, practical barriers make it more of a dream than a destination.
Roger retired in September 2022. His post-tennis life is deliberately structured around family, globetrotting (he landed in Dubai on Monday) and business ventures in and out of tennis.
The idea that he would take the coaching job and settle in Murcia full-time simply does not match his priorities. The same goes for Alcaraz who uprooted his carefully built environment and the Spanish sun to spend an extended period of time in Switzerland.
Yet the connection between the two ultimate champions is far from imaginary. Roger and Carlos have already shared meaningful moments off the field. Last year they trained together behind closed doors in Shanghai.
They also attended side-by-side the title fight between Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner, a scene that quietly symbolized the passing of eras. Their bond deepened at the Laver Cup in September.
Federer and Alcaraz met in Vancouver, spent time on the golf course and enjoyed the gala. In this way they strengthened mutual respect and sincere admiration.
For now, the Swiss remains more of an inspiration than anything else. However, Alcaraz’s admiration and influence on the team don’t require a clipboard or coaching badge.
At the moment, Roger remains a source of motivation and not a candidate to move to Murcia. The story of their collaboration is beautiful but untouched and lives in the imagination of tennis fans.
The Spaniard continues his preparation for the Australian Open alongside Samuel Lopez as the leading figure in his team after parting ways with Juan Carlos Ferrero.
The 22-year-old will look to put that massive change aside and chase the missing Major titles that would bring him ultimate tennis glory.
“It would be incredible, but I find it difficult to imagine Roger living here in Murcia. I would love it because he is one of my favorite players. I got a lot of inspiration from him when I coached Carlitos.
Technically he is a fantastic player, but I can’t imagine him living in Murcia or Carlitos in Switzerland,” said Carlos Santos.
#Coaching #dream #Roger #FedererCarlos #Alcaraz #Beautiful #unrealistic