Ferrer Hails Jodar After Testing Sinner: 'He Really Put Him to the Test'
Rafael Jodar, 19, pushed world No. 1 Jannik Sinner to the limit in Madrid. David Ferrer says the young Spaniard's performance signals a bright future for Spanish tennis.
The crowd at the Madrid Masters 1000 witnessed an intriguing first meeting on Wednesday between Jannik Sinner and young Spaniard Rafael Jodar.
On paper, the gap seemed immense. But in reality, it was much smaller, as for nearly a set and a half, the 19-year-old held his own against the world No. 1 before ultimately falling.
David Ferrer Blown Away: 'He Really Put Him to the Test'
Present and attentive at the match, Spanish Davis Cup captain David Ferrer did not hide his admiration in an interview with Radioestadio Noche.
"Rafa Jodar stood up to the world No. 1, and maintaining that level of performance is not easy. He plays at a very high level, he is on the right track, and he is only 19.
Sinner had to give his best; Jodar really put him to the test. The dedication he showed says a lot about him.
We knew Jodar would become a great player, but what we didn't know is that he would progress so quickly. He will play an important role in the Davis Cup team."
And for Spanish tennis, seeking continuity behind Carlos Alcaraz, Jodar's performance comes at just the right time.
