ATP Brandon Nakashima Rafael Jódar ATP Montreal 2026

Nakashima, after defeating Jódar: "My serve showed up when I needed it"

Andrés Tomás Rico - 13 Aug 2026
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Nakashima, after defeating Jódar: "My serve showed up when I needed it." Photo: Getty Images

A true display by Brandon Nakashima in the semifinals of the ATP Montreal 2026 after defeating Rafa Jódar (7-6(3), 6-4), thus securing a spot in his first Masters 1000 final. The American did everything right against the Spaniard, who never managed to show his best version. However, it was his serve that dictated the entire match. In fact, he only lost four points on his serve in the first set.

Moreover, thanks to his serve, he prevented Jódar from putting 5-5 on the scoreboard by saving three break points with three great serves. He didn't hesitate to talk about it in the on-court interview: "It has been crazy. The last games were very tight. I knew I had to keep fighting, that I had to save a couple of break points. Luckily, my serve showed up when I needed it, and I am very happy to have pulled it off," he assured TennisTV.

This will be the first Masters 1000 final between two Americans since 2003

But this was not the only dominant shot from the American. His forehand was blazing and a headache for the Spaniard: "I simply trusted it and struck through every ball. I know that my forehand, when I trust it and connect well, is one of my best shots. So, I am very happy that it paid off today."

Nakashima is already in the final and awaits one of his two compatriots: Ben Shelton or Learner Tien. However, whoever his opponent is, it will be the first Masters 1000 final between two American players since 2003. “It’s an incredible feeling. Obviously, it’s a great moment to be part of American tennis. There are many players doing really well these days. So, I’m just happy to be a part of it,” stated the newly minted finalist of the Masters 1000 of Canada 2026.
 

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Nakashima, tras vencer a Jódar: "Mi saque apareció cuando lo necesitaba"