Casper Ruud is reportedly preparing for a significant change to his coaching team, with former world No. 3 David Ferrer set to join the Norwegian for the 2027 season. According to Eurosport Spain, the agreement has been signed, marking Ferrer's return to the ATP Tour after several years working as Spain's Davis Cup captain.
Ferrer had already announced that he would leave his position with the Spanish national team after the upcoming Davis Cup Finals, hinting that he was preparing to work with a top player on the circuit. His next destination had remained a mystery, with speculation linking him to fellow Spaniard Rafael Jodar. However, Eurosport Spain now reports that it is Ruud who has secured his services.
The reported appointment would bring together two players with considerable experience at the highest level, although they have yet to officially confirm the partnership. Ruud, a three-time Grand Slam finalist, will be hoping Ferrer can help him rediscover his best form and challenge consistently for the biggest titles again in 2027.
It also remains unclear what role Ruud's father, Christian, will have within the new setup. He has been the Norwegian's longtime coach throughout his rise to the top of men's tennis, and any changes to that arrangement could be an important part of the transition.
Ferrer prepares for ATP return after Spain's Davis Cup campaign
Ferrer has spent the last four years leading Spain's Davis Cup team, a role he is expected to conclude after the 2026 Finals. The former Spanish star previously worked with Alexander Zverev in 2020 and 2021, alongside the German's father, Alexander Zverev Sr., before taking over the national team.
His experience as both a player and coach makes him an attractive addition for Ruud. Ferrer reached the 2013 French Open final, where he lost to Rafael Nadal, and appeared in six other Grand Slam semifinals. He also played a key role in Spain's Davis Cup triumphs in 2008, 2009 and 2011.
David Ferrer on court during his career.
A former world No. 3, Ferrer finished his playing career with one of the most impressive win records of the Open Era, ranking 15th on the all-time list. His consistency and competitive intensity made him one of the toughest opponents on the ATP Tour, particularly on clay.
Beyond his work with Zverev and the Spanish national team, Ferrer also served as tournament director of the Barcelona Open for six years, stepping down from the position in April 2025.
Ruud looks for a new direction ahead of 2027
For Ruud, the reported arrival of Ferrer comes at a point when a fresh approach could help him take the next step in his career. The Norwegian has reached three Grand Slam finals, at Roland Garros in 2022 and 2023 and the US Open in 2022, but has yet to win a major title.
He also reached the final of the 2022 ATP Finals and climbed to a career-high world No. 2. However, he has struggled to maintain the consistency that kept him inside the top 10 for several years. Although Ruud remains an established player capable of making deep runs at major tournaments, his results have declined in recent seasons, and he is no longer considered among the leading contenders for Grand Slam titles.
Ferrer could bring valuable experience to that pursuit, particularly given his own success on clay and understanding of what it takes to compete deep into Grand Slam tournaments. The partnership would also represent a new chapter for Ruud, whose father has been central to his development from the beginning.
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For now, Ferrer's attention remains on the Davis Cup Finals, his final event as Spain's captain, where he will attempt to sign off with another title. Spain boasts a formidable lineup led by Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Jodar, alongside Shanghai Masters champion Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. With three top-20 players in their squad, they are arguably among the strongest contenders for the trophy.
It would be an ideal farewell for Ferrer before he turns his attention to Ruud during the off-season. The Spaniard is expected to begin working with the Norwegian ahead of their first full campaign together in 2027.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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