Rafa Jodar reveals the advice he got from Rafael Nadal ahead of Miami Open third round

Rafael Jodar has quickly emerged as one of tennis’s top rising prospects, climbing up the rankings after an impressive start to the year.

If his name hasn’t popped up on your radar yet, it’s likely just a matter of time before it does.

Spain has a rich history of producing talent in the sport, and Jodar is currently making headlines with his best performance at a Masters 1000 event so far, taking place in Miami.

It’s no shock that Jodar draws a lot of inspiration from Rafael Nadal. The Spanish legend is someone he often talks about when discussing players he admires.

Rafael Jodar shares details of his conversation with Rafael Nadal

After his most recent win, Jodar spoke to Tennis Channel about a conversation he had with Nadal late last year.

He explained that he got the chance to speak with Nadal during the ATP Next Gen Finals, saying: “It was fantastic, without a doubt. I had the opportunity to talk to him for a while; it was the second time I saw him, but yes, you realise that he is a very kind and nice person.

“He gave me some advice. He is someone very natural, very normal, a very normal person. It was a privilege that someone like Rafa saw me in the Next Gen Finals.”

Jodar went on to say: “Well, he told me to try not to play too many tournaments, because I think there are players who try to play everything, every week, and it’s not positive for your health.

“You have to do it if you want to be a great player and stay on the circuit for a long time. That’s one of the tips I’m going through.”

Nadal also reached out to Carlos Alcaraz after his Australian Open victory this year. Despite retiring in 2024, Nadal remains an influential figure in tennis.

Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Jodar meet Queen Sofía in Miami

Jodar’s rapid climb didn’t go unnoticed. Alongside Alcaraz, he was invited to meet Queen Sofía of Spain while in Miami.

Both players looked genuinely honoured by the moment, and the Queen wished them well for the remainder of the tournament.

Alcaraz has often had royal support throughout his career. King Felipe VI handed him Spain’s top athlete award in 2022 and even reached out after his Wimbledon final defeat last year.

If Jodar keeps up this pace, it won’t be long before we start seeing more of that same royal recognition coming his way, too.

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