Alex Corretja impressed by Rafael Jodar’s level after defeat to Jannik Sinner in Madrid

Rafael Jodar’s remarkable run at the Madrid Open came to a close in the quarter-finals.

The young Spaniard, playing in his first tournament as a professional, had already beaten Jesper de Jong, Alex de Minaur, Joao Fonseca and Vit Kopriva before facing the world number one.

On Wednesday, he fell short against Jannik Sinner, losing 2-6, 6-7. Still, it was another strong showing for the teenager in what’s been a quick rise through the ranks.

Jodar has quickly become one of tennis’s most exciting young talents; and even with this loss – is expected to move up to number 34 in the world rankings.

Alex Corretja gives honest thoughts on Rafael Jodar after Sinner defeat

“For me, he’s already a reality [Jodar]. You can’t consider him a promising player anymore,” Corretja said on Spanish radio station El Larguero.

“Someone who’s playing the way he’s playing, at the level he’s showing, and really demonstrating that he keeps progressing week after week. So, it’s big news. Absolutely.

“Next week they’ll be in the top 30 [Ed. note – Jodar will be top 40]. It’s crazy.”

The host of El Larguero responded by remarking that Jodar’s tennis is different to that of Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal.

“Yes, the good thing is that he has his own personality, both on and off the court,” Corretja continued.

He later added: “The start was very intense, and Rafa had a few opportunities, but he couldn’t capitalise on them. He did get a little frustrated because he saw that his pace wasn’t really hurting Sinner, who was still playing at a very high speed.

“But the way he went toe-to-toe with him, without any fear, standing up to him, pressuring him with his forehand and backhand, it really seemed like a display of courage and skill from Rafa.

The Italian Open gets started on May 5th in Rome and will run through until May 17th.

Jodar will be one of many making their first appearance at this year’s tournament as qualifying matches are set to begin over the weekend ahead of day one next week.

How far can Rafael Jodar go during the clay-court swing?

Rafael Jodar is already among the stronger clay-court players on tour.

Since early April, he’s already taken the title in Marrakech and made it to the quarter-finals in Madrid.

Rome and Paris are both well within reach if he keeps up this level of play.

The attributes of his game seem well-suited for the surface. His movement stands out, and he’s got enough power to hit through opponents, even when things slow down.

Time will tell whether Jodar continues to raise his level. But with what he’s shown so far, there doesn’t appear to be much holding him back.

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