Rafael Jodar, a qualifier ranked No. 137, produced the biggest upset of Wimbledon 2026 by defeating fifth seed Alexander Zverev 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (7-5), 4-6, 6-3 in the second round. The 21-year-old Spaniard then backed it up with a 7-5, 6-4, 6-2 victory over 10th seed Alex de Minaur to reach the fourth round in his first Grand Slam main draw appearance.
Historic Run for Spanish Qualifier
Jodar is the first qualifier to reach the Wimbledon fourth round since Lukas Rosol in 2014. He has now won eight consecutive matches, including three qualifying rounds, and has dropped only two sets in the tournament. According to ATP stats, he has hit 102 winners across his two main-draw matches, showcasing his aggressive baseline game.
“I’m living a dream. I came here just hoping to win one match, and now I’m in the second week. I have no words,” Jodar said after his win over de Minaur.
Zverev Stunned in Five Sets
Against Zverev, Jodar saved 12 of 15 break points and fired 18 aces. The German, a former world No. 2, struggled with his second serve, winning only 47% of points behind it. Jodar broke Zverev’s serve four times, including the decisive break in the eighth game of the fifth set.
“He played unbelievably. I had chances but he came up with big shots when it mattered,” Zverev said in his press conference.
De Minaur No Match for Jodar’s Power
Facing de Minaur, known for his speed and return game, Jodar dictated play from the baseline. He won 82% of first-serve points and broke the Australian’s serve five times. The match lasted 2 hours, 11 minutes, with Jodar dominating the rallies longer than five shots, winning 68% of them.
Jodar will next face 14th seed Frances Tiafoe or qualifier Mikhail Kukushkin for a place in the quarter-finals. He is the first Spanish man to reach the Wimbledon fourth round since Rafael Nadal in 2022.
