Jódar also defeats Tabilo in Federer's home

Rafael Jódar is determined to leave his mark at the ATP 500 Basel 2026 and deliver an important performance in a tournament vital for the young man from Madrid's great objectives by the end of the season. The way he beat Alejandro Tabilo showcases his great confidence and determination, winning 6-4 6-2. His next opponent will be Valentin Vacherot.

He has no limits. It has been a long time since Rafael Jódar exceeded any logical expectations in his first year as a professional tennis player, but every week he seems to make a leap in level at all stages. Far from feeling the pressure of fighting for a ticket to Turin and the possibility of entering the top-10, the debut of the Madrid player at the ATP 500 Basel 2026 was simply perfect.

Jódar finished with 79% of points won on his first serve

Having beaten Alejandro Tabilo twice this year gave the Spaniard confidence, but the Chilean is never an easy opponent. The initial games of the first set were a demonstration that Rafa was very lively on his feet and with great intensity in his returns, although the Chilean managed to evade the pressure from his opponent and set up a 0-40 in his favor in the sixth game.

There was a clear turning point in the match. Jódar served well, played steadily, and took advantage of his opponent's doubts to win that challenging game, and from there, he became unstoppable. He flew around the court to claim the first set and gained a rhythm and confidence that Tabilo could not keep up with.

Rafael Jódar could be top-10 and approach the ATP Finals after the Basel tournament

And indeed, the second set was a demonstration of power from the Spaniard, impeccable in all his shots, perfect in tactical decisions, and with an impeccable competitive attitude. The Chilean lowered his arms, clearly feeling inferior to a Rafael Jódar who keeps the flame of the ATP Finals and the top-10 alive.

To continue dreaming of achieving both successes this very week, after the ATP 500 Basel 2026, the Spaniard will have to defeat a very complex opponent in the second round, such as Valentin Vacherot. It will be the first time he faces the Monegasque and he will do so for a spot in the quarter-finals, where he could meet Hurkacz or Rune. There are reasons to feel hopeful about Rafael Jódar in this tournament.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Jódar también somete a Tabilo en el hogar de Federer