Jódar is from another planet

Diego Jiménez Rubio - 16 Oct 2026 | 11:03
Rafael Jódar Casper Ruud ATP ATP Shanghái 2026
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Rafael Jódar against Ruud in Shanghai. Photo: Getty Images

Rafael Jódar achieved one of those victories that serve as the best possible endorsement to think of him as a star of both the future and the present. The young player from Madrid defeated Casper Ruud with a score of 4-6 6-4 6-3 to advance to the semifinals of the ATP Masters 1000 Shanghai 2026.

Every match that Rafael Jódar plays at the highest level conveys the feeling that his potential is even greater. His fighting spirit, mental consistency, and maturity are powerful weapons that compensate for his evident lack of experience and room for improvement on certain shots.

Facing an intelligent player seasoned in countless battles, like Casper Ruud, was a significant test, especially with something as delicious at stake as a spot in the semifinals of the ATP Masters 1000 Shanghai 2026. A great battle was anticipated, and the expectations were not only met but exceeded.

These were the details of Jódar's victory over Ruud in Shanghai 

From the start of the first set, it was clear that the contrasting playing styles of the two players ensured a great spectacle. Jódar needed very little time to read his opponent's serve and apply tremendous pressure, but Ruud held on and was able to switch from defense to offense, forcing the Spaniard to search for more and take risks.

The Spaniard saved two break points in the middle of the set, and his level grew considerably, making him master of the match. Rafa was especially incisive and precise in a ninth game where he had two break opportunities, but chose the wrong shot to execute at the crucial moment, letting a natural competitor like Casper off the hook. After escaping the abyss, the Norwegian managed to strike in the tenth game and took the first set.

Jódar finished the match with 28 winners and was lethal on the counterattack

Once again in the tournament, Jódar started behind on the scoreboard, feeling that he had done enough to be ahead. Instead of being overwhelmed by this, the Madrilenian increased his intensity in the second set and again became the master of the match, with a visibly overwhelmed Ruud during his service games and uncomfortable in the baseline exchanges.

The Norwegian seemed unable to understand how this young player was moving so effortlessly on the other side of the court. He managed to level the score mainly due to Rafa's occasional errors, but soon it became clear that the match was in his opponent's hands. As soon as Jódar found his rhythm, he achieved a new break that ultimately would lead the match to the deciding set.

A heavier match load throughout the year, much greater physical wear in Shanghai, youth, and lack of experience compared to his rival... Everything seemed to be against Jódar as he headed into the third set, but this kid does not adhere to logical reasoning. He stepped onto the court with a perfect balance of aggression and consistency, changing directions with greater effectiveness and speed than in the rest of the match and tormenting a Ruud who felt like a puppet.

Rafael Jódar did not score lower than 8 on all shots in the official metrics

Break in the third game, counter-break by Casper once again due to Rafa's lapses, and what was more painful for the Norwegian, another slam from Jódar on the table. The most effective way to demonstrate that the match was in his hands was what Jódar did, getting to 4-2 thanks to two immense games from his side.

He tried tirelessly Casper Ruud, playing with depth and power, but found himself against a wall that returned balls with immaculate precision, committing few errors and feeding off his own shots. There was nothing to reproach the Norwegian, who has felt firsthand the greatness, both already real and still emerging, of the Spanish tennis player.

The fluidity of Rafael Jódar in such significant events as this ATP Masters 1000 Shanghai 2026 is impressive. Much has been said about his privileged mentality, but what he did against Ruud was an authentic display of outstanding tennis prowess. He is just two matches away from the title, and no one can dare to overlook him as a great candidate for it.

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