Rafael Jodar, Spain's newest tennis sensation, made a stunning debut at the Madrid Open on Thursday, cheered on by Real Madrid and England star Jude Bellingham. The 19-year-old, who is three years younger than compatriot Carlos Alcaraz, fought back from a set down to defeat Dutchman Jesper de Jong 2-6 7-5 6-4 on the Manolo Santana stadium.
Jodar's tribute to Bellingham
After completing the victory, Jodar, a Real Madrid fan, turned to Bellingham in the crowd with his arms outstretched in a tribute to the midfielder's trademark goal celebration. He then wrote 'Hey Jude' on the camera lens. Jodar admitted he was surprised to see Bellingham there, saying: "It was for me a surprise, I had no idea, but then I had the chance to talk to him. He's a great person."
A role model on and off the court
Jodar, who met Bellingham two years ago after winning the US Open juniors, described the England international as a role model. "I'm super grateful that he came to support me and to watch some tennis. He's a role model for me," Jodar said. The teenager has risen from outside the top 160 at the start of the season to 42 in the rankings after winning his first title in Marrakech and reaching the semi-finals in Barcelona.
Nadal's legacy inspires Jodar
Two years after Rafael Nadal's final appearance in Madrid, chants of 'Vamos Rafa' rang around the Caja Magica once more. Jodar, who stands at 6ft 3in, admitted he was nervous at the start but drew inspiration from Nadal's never-say-die mentality. "It was a great match," he said. "Many people that I know came to watch my match so it was really special to see them in the stands."
Next challenge: Alex De Minaur
Jodar's next test comes on Friday against fifth seed Alex De Minaur, where he will seek his first top-10 win. The hype surrounding him is immense, but he remains grounded. Jodar may also get the opportunity to tread in Bellingham's shoes, with the Bernabeu transformed into a practice venue for the tournament this week.
