Jódar, on the match against Sinner: "If I do things well, I'll have my chances"
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Spanish tennis player Rafa Jódar expressed confidence in his chances against world number one Jannik Sinner in the Madrid Masters quarterfinals.
- Jódar, 19, emphasized focusing on his own game and adapting to match conditions, highlighting his unique setup with only his father as his coach.
- He also discussed his development on hard courts and his adaptable approach to match schedules and potential rain, aiming to maintain his current winning mentality.
Rafa Jódar continues to be the sole Spanish hope in the Madrid Masters, captivating fans with his impressive run to the quarterfinals. At just 19, his calm demeanor and focus on his game, even when facing the world's best like Jannik Sinner, are remarkable. What truly sets Jódar apart is his unconventional support system: his father is his entire team. This intimate setup, far from the entourages of other top players, speaks volumes about his grounded approach and the strong bond he shares with his father. It's a testament to his dedication that he can maintain such focus, shunning social media and external pressures to concentrate solely on his performance.
It will be a very tough match, I will try to give my best level and learn from that match and come out with the same mentality as before. And I will have my chances if I do things well.
Jódar's adaptability is another key factor in his success. Unlike some players who might complain about late-night matches or potential rain delays, Jódar embraces these challenges. He understands that these are part of the game and that success hinges on adapting to whatever conditions arise. This mature outlook, coupled with his solid performance on hard courts after honing his skills in the US, suggests a player who is not only talented but also mentally prepared for the rigors of professional tennis. His journey is a refreshing narrative in a sport often dominated by established stars and large teams, offering a glimpse into a more personal and focused path to the top.
The team is my father and me, and for now we have not changed it nor are we going to change it because there is no reason to change it. It's going well for me like this.
Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.