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

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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

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“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.