"He gave me some tips": Rafael Jodar breaks into Top 100 and reflects on Nadal influence in Miami

Saturday, 21 March 2026 at 20:00

Rafael Nadal’s influence continues to shape the next generation of Spanish tennis, with Rafael Jodar revealing key advice from the 22-time Grand Slam champion during his breakthrough run at the 2026 Miami Open. The 19-year-old, who entered through qualifying, has now secured a Top 100 debut and described the milestone as significant, saying it “means a lot” while stressing that he must “keep going.”

Jodar’s rise in Miami has combined performance and opportunity. After defeating Yannick Hanfmann in the opening round, he was scheduled to face fifth seed Lorenzo Musetti before the Italian withdrew late. The Spaniard took advantage of the change, defeating lucky loser Aleksandar Vukic in straight sets, conceding just three games in a dominant display.

The result places Jodar among the youngest players inside the Top 100, becoming only the second player under 20 to reach that mark this season, behind Joao Fonseca. It also builds on his Next Gen ATP Finals campaign, where he won two round robin matches but missed out on the semi-finals on game difference.

Despite the rapid progress, Jodar has framed his season around long-term development. He emphasised that his goal is to “keep improving” because his game “can develop a lot,” a mindset reinforced by a recent exchange with Nadal that has already influenced his approach to the tour.

Nadal meeting and advice on longevity

Jodar’s interaction with Nadal came during the Next Gen ATP Finals, where the Spanish legend was present in the stands. It marked only the second time the two had met, but the conversation left a clear impression, both in terms of its simplicity and its relevance to a young player entering the ATP Tour.

He highlighted Nadal’s personality as much as his achievements, noting how natural the exchange felt despite the stature of the 22-time Grand Slam champion. The moment itself carried significance, with Jodar competing at a key stage of his early career while being observed by one of the sport’s defining figures.

“It was great. I had the chance to talk to him for a bit," he said to Tennis Channel. "It was actually the second time that I saw him. He’s a very nice person. He gave me some tips, and he’s very natural, very normal. It’s a privilege that someone like Rafa watched me at the ATP Finals.”

The advice focused directly on career management, particularly the risks associated with overplaying during the early stages of a professional career. Nadal’s message reflected a long-term perspective shaped by durability and sustained performance.

“He told me not to play too many tournaments because there are players who try to play every week. That’s not good for your health. If you want to be a good player, you have to be on tour for a long time.”

Miami performance underlines progress

On court, Jodar’s level in Miami has confirmed his ability to compete consistently at this level. Reflecting on his latest performance, he pointed to the overall feeling and control he experienced throughout the match. “I felt great on court today, very good feelings. I knew it was going to be a tough match because here everyone plays very good, but I’m very happy with my level today.”

At the same time, his evaluation of his game remains grounded. Rather than focusing on results, Jodar identified several areas requiring improvement, particularly his net play and variation off the backhand side. “I think honestly in everything. For example, the volley game, I think I have to work on those things, try to come more to the net and develop that game more. And then obviously the slice backhand is also a thing that I’m working on.”

This self-assessment reflects a broader understanding of progression. Despite reaching the Top 100, Jodar continues to view his season as part of a longer developmental process rather than a defining breakthrough moment. “I couldn’t pick one match. All the matches that I’ve been playing this season were helping me to get to this level.”

Opportunity opens in favourable draw

Jodar will next face 29th seed Tomás Martín Etcheverry, a player more comfortable on clay and still seeking a breakthrough at Masters 1000 level. The Argentine has yet to move beyond the third round at this category, and Miami’s faster conditions may favour the Spaniard’s current form.

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The draw has opened significantly, with no Top 20 players remaining in Jodar’s section through to the semi-finals. That creates a realistic opportunity to extend his run, particularly given his current confidence and physical condition.

Even so, his focus remains aligned with the message he received from Nadal. Rather than chasing immediate results, Jodar continues to prioritise steady development and long-term progression. “I know that my game still can develop a lot. I need to improve many things, and that’s also great because I can improve my level a lot. So just try to keep going and keep improving.”

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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