How the Ferrero Tennis Academy established itself as a pillar of Spanish tennis

Tucked just five minutes away from the small Spanish city of Villena, located in the Valencian Community, and 40 minutes from Alicante, the Ferrero Tennis Academy has become one of the most influential training grounds in European tennis.

Known for its calm setting, world-class facilities, and history of producing champions, the academy combines tradition with high performance—all under the Mediterranean sun.

From Equelite to Ferrero: A Legacy Begins

The academy was founded in 1990 by Antonio Martínez Cascales, who would later coach Juan Carlos Ferrero to world No. 1 and a Grand Slam title at Roland Garros. Originally named Equelite Academy, it was later renamed the JC Ferrero Equelite Academy in Ferrero’s honor, before being shortened for international recognition and simplicity.

Today, the name Ferrero Tennis Academy stands as a global reference point in player development, blending elite tennis culture with the warmth and quiet of rural Spain.

A World-Class Facility

The academy sits on 120,000 square meters of land and features 25 courts (hard and clay courts), top-class gym and recovery areas, player housing, and green surroundings designed to create a tranquil training atmosphere.

One of its most distinctive elements is its gardens, carefully set around the courts and main buildings. The academy’s location—far from motorways and city noise—allows players to practice in complete focus. And with Alicante’s mild, sunny climate, tennis can be played outdoors almost every day of the year.

A Challenger Returns to Alicante

In 2018, Ferrero Tennis Academy became the host of an ATP Challenger event in Alicante for the first time since 1996. The inaugural edition quickly earned praise for its player-friendly atmosphere and intimate setting.

The first two editions were won by Pablo Andújar, a homegrown Spanish favorite. In 2020, a then 17-year-old Carlos Alcaraz—who had trained at the academy from a young age under Ferrero’s guidance—lifted the trophy on clay.

From 2021 onward, the tournament transitioned from clay to hard courts, reflecting the academy’s commitment to preparing players for all surfaces on the tour. Frenchman Constant Lestienne captured the title in 2021 as well as 2023. This year’s edition was won by Pablo Carreño Busta, who also practiced for years at the Ferrero Tennis Academy.

Alcaraz, Andújar & Co: A Player Magnet

The academy is more than just a host for tournaments—it’s a meeting point for some of the world’s top talents. In July 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the academy organized an exhibition event featuring Pablo Carreño Busta, Alex de Minaur, João Sousa, Alejandro Davidovich Fokina and Carlos Alcaraz.

Honoring a Champion

In 2023, the academy reached a symbolic milestone: its Center Court was officially named after Carlos Alcaraz, celebrating not just his achievements on the global stage but also his roots at Villena.

Alcaraz is more than just a champion here—he’s the embodiment of the academy’s philosophy: hard work, humility, and belief.

Looking Ahead

With a growing international reputation and a Challenger tournament that continues to attract top players, Ferrero Tennis Academy has firmly established itself as a pillar of Spanish and international tennis. Its combination of history, world-class facilities, and a unique environment ensures that the next generation of tennis stars will keep emerging from Villena—just as Juan Carlos Ferrero and Carlos Alcaraz once did.