Juan Carlos II -- Spanish King of Tennis
by Priyanka Tayal
Juan Carlos Ferrero, a name that has been on the lips of many tennis lovers across the world. Whether posing as a threat to their favorite player, or being their favorite, Ferrero truly has entered the minds and hearts of global spectators, capturing the very essence of mastering the game. Born on 12th February 1980, now at a tender age of 23, Aquarian Ferrero has accomplished much - winning three titles this year itself with an overwhelming win at the French Open, his first Grand Slam title, and tournament wins in home-turf Valencia and the Masters Series title in Monte Carlo. Additionally, being Runner Up at Roland Garros 2002 and the Tennis Masters Cup in Shanghai held last year. Many believe that he is playing the best that he has in his career. “Well... I want to be No. 1 in the world, is one of my goals, you know. And then I want to win Roland Garros some day because it's one of my goals. Of course, I want to win US Open because it's on hard court and I would shut up the, you know, the other people saying that the Spanish people is not playing good in hard courts. So I have three goals”, he says as he smiles, prior to his final encounter with Martin Verkerk. With a hotshot record of ten titles, a 203-87 career wins-losses ratio with a 36-7 tally this year itself, who is surprised?
ClassThough these victories are noted as examples of sheer class and elegance, Ferrero's presence and mental capability seem to contribute immensely to the nature of his game. He brilliantly and artistically executes groundstrokes, including a killer forehand and a strong, evolving backhand. The young Spaniard also has demonstrated great development, persistence and consistence as his volleying skills have improved, along with his tremendous control, angles and depth which catch his opponents in a tango. This year, a change can be noticed, as Ferrero seems a more complete player. His physical strength has enhanced, allowing him to generate more pace, and give him a more competitive edge. He has improved his serve, as well as his confidence in playing at the net. Ferrero seems to have a charismatic flare and a burning desire for victory, which gives him the edge above so many other players, who recognize his exquisite capability. As current world number one Lleyton Hewitt of Australia said after his defeat in the quarterfinals of the 2000 French Open against the dynamic Ferrero, "There's not much you can do...It's going to take one hell of a player to beat Ferrero."
Davis Cup
Many believe that Ferrero's saga-like clay court record began with his victory in the Davis Cup 2000 where he convincingly defeated 19-year-old Australian Hewitt. Ferrero himself acknowledges, "Maybe the Davis Cup give me so much confidence.to play in clay courts. But you know, it was two tough matches with a lot of pressure and everything.and it helped me to do very good in the court and difficult situations and everything." Since that epic match, he has often been crowned as Juan Carlos II, the second king of Spain and his kingdom seems to spread all across the world as he continues to reign as one of the kings on clay courts.
Confidence
Yet, the humble Ferrero says, “I don’t feel to be the number one because every Spanish player Moya, Alex, Mantilla is playing good, and I don’t…its very important to feel the first one.” He may not think that he is the best on clay, but many believe that he is close, especially due to his impressive performances at Roland Garros. This year, Fernando Gonzalez stated, “We know that he is one of the best on clay, and I have great respect for Ferrero as a clay courter” while Guillermo Coria says, “He’s one of the best players on clay right now. You have to play perfect in order to be able to win against him.” Ferrero’s own view? “I think is also confidence, you know. In clay court, I have a lot of confidence. It's easy to play good for me…So when I feel very good physically, you know, and very good mentality, I go to the court and the tennis is coming along, you know.” More than ‘just coming along’ for sure! With an extraordinary 122-7 win-loss record on clay, it in undoubted that Ferrero has some magic to offer the clay courts. Gustavo ‘Guga’ Kuerten once said, “I enjoy a lot to play against Ferrero. I think he is the best player here in the field…for sure he's in the top level, I think one of the most completely, you know, player in the Tour. He played well in different surface… So he's quite solid to be in the Top 10 for many years I think.”
Dream
Having finally won his long-term ambition, the French Open 2003, it is clear that this year’s Ferrero is different from the Runner Up last year. “I think I had the experience last year to play bad the final, you know. And this time, before the match, you know, I was thinking that I have to try to give my best, to try to give my best mentally, physically, tennistically.” A spectacular win, Ferrero proved that he was mentally more ready, and his tennis was at top class and panache that he is trademarked for. The first Grand Slam title amongst many to come, in my opinion, and making his way towards becoming the world number one. Being highly affectionate towards his emotional family, and looking towards the heavens, in prayer of his mother, Ferrero charismatically enraptured tennis lovers all over the nation as he elevated and kissed that Musketeer Cup on the 8th of June, 2003. He seemed nearly perfect, he says, “I'm feeling so happy, you know. I mean, you know, is very special to win the tournament that you want to win...I worked a lot. It's been a long time now. It's not because I won this tournament that I'm going to stop working; I'm going to try to become the best of the world. I'm going to try to win good tournaments and to become No. 1 in the world…If I want to reach that goal, I have to continue to work…Be No. 1 is one of my priorities. It's the first priority, the top priority.” This year Ferrero seems in a more positive physical condition, and his confidence soars, having dropped merely three sets on his path to victory. In fact, in his four appearances at the French Open, Ferrero has twice reached the Semis, once been a Runner Up, and recently been the Champion. Quite an achievement already for the lad, and the world will watch as he strives to obtain the number one position in the tennis world...
Flamboyance
Many have said that it is impossible to derive by the look on Ferrero's face, his position in the match - whether he is a set up or down or whatever. Ferrero's intense concentration, seriousness and tranquil disposition however are his assets. The Spaniard chooses to keep his emotions to himself as he confirms, "I am not someone who usually shows his feelings, whether I win or lose. But I can confirm for you I'm the most happy." Perhaps less expressive as compared to other players, Ferrero still possesses an indescribable flamboyance and a determined, dangerous instinct which makes him stronger as a professional. Delicately magical, Ferrero has firmly established himself as a prominent promise in the future of the game. With tremendous skills and growing confidence he says, "I keep going all the time, you know, fighting and fighting. Finally, you know, you win a tournament and you feel very, very happy." Tennis fans all across the world will know, the extent to which Ferrero has progressed in the past few years. He tells, "Everything, we can say that everything has changed. Life, the tournaments, everything has changed a lot."
Dazzling
Ferrero's calm serenity and patience on court is undoubtedly dazzling, along with his deadly accuracy and variety. His strengths and capabilities are admired as many look upon him as an idol and inspiration. All this at the age of 23. But then again, he is worth the admiration. When entering as a contender for the New Balls Please campaign, Ferrero said, "I think it will be fun to be famous." Little did he know what that would amount to, commenting after the 2000 Roland Garros "Before, I passed unnoticed, and now I don't and people respect me as a player. Today, for example, I've just signed autographs at the Eiffel Tower and last year, I think I hadn't signed any. But I'm still the same guy, I go to the same hotel, I work with the same coach and my family is with me." It is clear that Ferrero is a shining star, one with tremendous patience and composure.
Angel
However, his determination suffered a tremendous blow with the death of his mother in 1997. Ferrero even considered giving up his tennis career. But he remembered how much she loved him playing, and rose to the challenge and has lived up to every dream and fantasy, and is satisfying his mother’s wishes. It is evident that to Juan Carlos Ferrero, family is first as he blows a kiss to the heavens, and dedicates every win to his mother, an angel standing beside him throughout his career and more importantly his life. As he remembers the times he used to break plugs using tennis balls with his unique preciseness, causing his mother to get angry, he sweetly justifies his current emotional actions, “as [one of] a good son who will never forget.” When asked about her at the interview session after his win at the French Open, he responds, “…in my mind, she was in the first row.”
Family
His father too is deep in Ferrero's heart as he has an everlasting love and admiration for the one who gave up so much for his tennis career. Ferrero states, "[My father has played] A big, a very big part. For ten years I fight to be someone and my father entirely sacrificed himself for me.He's a friend, I learn a lot with him, I respect him." Having a number of quick, sharp glances at his `box' when receiving a serve, and after winning each point reinforces Ferrero's importance to his loved ones. It is clear, that around all this glamour and success, his nerves of steel are still immensely dedicated to those who are important to him as he looks at them for love, support and strength. When asked who helped him to reach the top, he sincerely responds, "My father, my sisters, and Antonio, my coach, but also Samuel Lopez. But above all my family." Even when he won the French Open, he was not at all hesitant to state, "Many people helped me - my coach, my whole family. Everybody helped me to win."
A big child
His coach, Antonio Martinez Cascales, talks about Ferrero as, "very responsible and showed me a never-failing faithfulness when many people were advising him to separate from me. They bothered his family but he went on without listening to anybody. Sometimes I myself wonder why... He's very sensitive and loyal with his friends. His success didn't change him. If he has changed, it's because of the age, but it's normal. He's very mature in his work, and a bit less when he has a good time. He's young, and we can't reproach him for anything, since he doesn't do anything wrong. He's a big child."
Balls!
The young Ferrero is clearly maturing as his career advances. Not only in his game as his shots continue to be subtle yet powerfully accurate, but also as a person. He has started to express his feelings towards the crowds, improving his English skills and trying to make a connection with his numerous fans. He seems to be a well-rounded individual, both on and off the court. When he played in a match in the Davis Cup in Malaga against Kafelnikov, he realized that the crowd was chanting in a chorus `Ferrero!Ferrero!'. To that, he responded, "It gave me goose flesh and I felt something very special. It's hard to explain. Thank God, and I was touched to hear all the people encourage me and say my name." When giving a champion's speech at the end of a tournament, Ferrero speaks the right words as he remembers to thank the numerous people involved - the fans, the hotels, the drivers, the judges, the empires, the ball-kids etc.
Aggression
Experience is a benefit when playing against tough opponents. However, though Ferrero has comparatively little experience, it is clear that he is climbing the ladder. When a very young Ferrero played one of his first ATP tournament finals against fellow Spaniard Alex Corretja and won, how did he celebrate his victory? "I shaved my head. (Laughter) And I celebrated it with my family. I took ten days of holidays, which hadn't happened to me since I was 12!" It is good to know that Ferrero is growing in confidence as he is now becoming more aware of his solid game and calculatingly beautiful skills, and no longer feels he has to shave his head to celebrate a major victory!
As the tournaments progress his thoughts and attitude become more focused, direct and precise. He is tallying his experience and advancing, as he seems to become a great thinker and strategist during his matches, clearly challenging his opponent not only physically, but also mentally. When asked to describe himself, he said, "As a person, I'm simple and at the same time extrovert. As a tennis player, first of all I'm aggressive and I want to be considered as a player who enters the court with the big desire to win each point." Ferrero is serious and immensely determined in every match. His concentration is massive as he enchants tennis lovers across the globe.
El Mosquito
Ferrero is vividly known for his blasting pace on court, as Nicolas Lapentti of Ecuador states after his defeat in Roma last year, "I didn't even have time to take a breath because he is so quick." The modest Ferrero responds by acknowledging the abilities of his opponent as he answers, "If he said that, I am happy -- I happy for that because Lapentti is one of the great players on clay court and one of the great players [at the baseline] in clay court as well. So if he said that, I think it's really..."
'El Mosquito' as he is nicknamed due in part to his stature but more importantly blistering speed and agility around the court, had an early passion for tennis. He entered numerous competitions and tournaments, slowly making his name as a future star and climbing the ladder of success. Who can forget all his cute photos, especially the one of him at the tournament "Les Petits As" in 1994?
Chavalito
Many have noticed Ferrero's career since the year 1998 when he turned pro. His stunning skills, flair and style have impressed not only the tennis world but extended itself to a whole new realm. Ferrero is popularly known as `Chavalito' or `Little Kid' by his fellow Spanish players due to his youth. Kid? Perhaps not, as the young McDonald's loving Ferrero has become an attraction for tens and thousands of screaming girls all over the world! With a height of 6' and weighing 72kgs, many of fallen for his soft, bushy blond/brown hair, light brown eyes and captivating voice. Numerous signs read `Te quiero' or `Un beso' viewing Juanqui, as he is affectionately called, in quite a different perspective. It seems that not only has Ferrero become one of the most talented players, but also one of the hottest!
True Spaniard
In spite of all the success he has had individually, Onteniente born Ferrero is still a dedicated patriot. As a service to the Spanish talent, Ferrero has started his own tennis school named 'Equalite JC Ferrero'. He feels proud to represent Spain in any tournament, especially the Davis Cup. He confidently acknowledges, "We are the only team in the world to have four captains, but it's important to know that the situation in Spain is very different, with so many players well ranked. With the current structure, nobody feels apart." Inspite of his readily evident ambition, Ferrero has not forgotten team spirit and cooperation. He feels, "We have the level to be in the top. I think now we are three in the Top 10, a lot of players in the Top 50 and top hundred. We are in a great form. We are still to hope to be in the top. I think its very important." Just as a note, Ferrero's career win-loss record against fellow Spaniards is 43-14.
Clouds
Ferrero has not got his head in the clouds despite all his success, and is firmly grounded on his own feet. He is just like you and me, except perhaps the pay cheque…But he himself admits, “I’m just a normal guy.” Normal and quite charitable as well, as Ferrero involves himself with various charities, such as the Gala of Health (which took place in his home town Villena, June 2000). After his epic Davis Cup victory, Ferrero donated the clothes that he wore during the match, so as to sell them in order to aid the victims of the earthquake in El Salvador. Clearly exhibiting the virtues of being a true sportsman, Ferrero exercises his fame and glory in helping those less fortunate and troubled.
Football and fast cars
Juan Carlos Ferrero is a vehement football fanatic and admits to become quite nervous and stressed when his favorite teams (in order of preference) Real Madrid, Valencia and Barcelona play. He also enjoys dancing, as he should with those swift, crafty feet. Undoubtedly however, one of his greatest passions is driving and being an avid collector, whether it is motorbikes or fast cars. Ferrero's relaxation when he drives urged him to drive all the way from Malaga to the Estoril open in 2001. More noticeably, during the Barcelona open he even found time to hit the circuits of Catalonia along with fellow Spaniard Carlos Moya just at the point when both were about to play! An excited Ferrero could be seen prancing around, eager to get into the driver’s seat. Though a hard worker and laborer, Ferrero also grabs all opportunities he has to visit some of the sites when he is abroad. During his 2-day period between the quarterfinals and the match with Kuerten in the semifinals of the 2000 French Open, though his concentration and state of mind would certainly be at a peak, Ferrero says “I'm going to see something in Paris. It's perfect.”
Grass
Though the young Spaniard has an overwhelmingly impressive record on both clay courts and hard courts this year, it is the territory of grass courts which stand in his path towards perfection. Though seemingly somber, Ferrero is a volatile, vibrant person off the court. He continues to make his mates laugh, and enjoys life. He is known among fellow players as being humorous and constantly making them laugh. He proves it in an interview held prior to Wimbledon last year. When asked whether he was playing in Nottingham on grass before progressing to The All England Lawn Tennis Club at Wimbledon, Ferrero wittingly responded, "What is a grass court?" After swallowing a couple of laughs he continued to say, "Yes, I am gonna play Nottingham, but I think it's my second time in grass court so I don't know how I can to play because I don't have preparation on grass court and is gonna be the second match of my life. I played last year in Halle against Gustafsson. I had two set points, I am very happy"...As he cracks into another jovial laugh. The world will wait and watch how that progresses.
In putting all of his amazing qualities down on paper, it is difficult, almost impossible, to deduce that Juan Carlos Ferrero is merely 23 years of age. In his career spanning nearly 6 years, he has uniquely stunned spectators worldwide, enhancing his position as a world- renowned tennis personality. The world will continue to watch as he grows up on court, studying his marvelously spectacular stroke play, eagerness and determination. Ferrero declares, "I would like people to remember me as one of the best players in History, I work for History." That dream is already well on target. Personally, I believe that he is on his way to becoming a true sporting legend and Guru of tennis.