Andy Roddick adds reason Juan Carlos Ferrero wants to coach Ben Shelton

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 about whom JCF would coach, and none of them involved Shelton.

On a recent episode of his “Served” podcast, Andy Roddick offers an theory about the motivation for JCF to coach Shelton.

MORE: What does Ben Shelton gain by hiring Carlos Alcaraz’s former coach?

Revenge is motivator, according to Roddick

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 Alcaraz in an epic quarterfinal.

JCF is a great coach and a former ATP World No. 1 and French Open champion. Roddick said JCF can help Shelton and his dad, Bryan, get Shelton to that level on the young player’s weakest surface, clay.

Roddick said 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

Rafael Jodar was presumed to be JCF’s next player

Young Spanish star Rafael Jodar was a logical pick. He turned pro in 2025. Jodar is 20 years old and has one ATP title. 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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