Spain’s Rafael Jodar has enjoyed a meteoric rise to prominence over the last two months. With Carlos Alcaraz on the sidelines, the 19-year-old has become the main attraction in Madrid, playing and winning two night-session matches.
“I knew I had to enjoy myself,” Jodar said after his stunningly one-sided win over fifth seed Alex De Minaur on Friday. “If I had a shot, I had to go for it.”
Jodar v Fonseca: A Glimpse into Tennis’s Future
Jodar will now face Joao Fonseca, who experienced a similar rise to fame last year. Fonseca, after a strong first half in 2025, struggled later in the year, but has since rediscovered his form.
“Joao is a tough opponent, and I have to prepare well for this match,” Jodar said after beating De Minaur. “I have to play my own game and be ready in case things don’t go as well as today. I have to try to stay strong in those moments.”
The match should be the first of many between the two players. It is also expected to be a baseline battle. Fonseca has a significant forehand, while Jodar has a heavy topspin forehand and a two-handed backhand.
Jodar may also have a slight edge on the serve. Jodar will be on his home court, with a night crowd supporting him.
Rybakina and Zheng Clash on Clay
Elena Rybakina faces Zheng Qinwen. Both players like to finish points quickly and have the weapons to do so. Consistency can be an issue for both.
Rybakina and Zheng have both had strong results on clay. Zheng won an Olympic gold medal at Roland Garros in 2024 and reached the quarter-finals there last year. Rybakina has five clay-court titles, including one in Rome in 2023 and one in Stuttgart last week.
Sinner Returns to Action
Jannik Sinner is also set to return to action.
Jodar seems to have a healthy respect for Fonseca, and a healthy understanding that everything won’t go his way every day.