Rafael Jodar has spoken for the first time since Carlos Alcaraz’s epic Paris Masters comeback sealed his qualification for the 2026 ATP Finals.
The Spanish star is the first player in history to qualify for the ATP Finals after making their ATP Tour level debut in the same season.
Jodar occupied the final qualification place in the Race to Turin at the start of the Paris Masters, but his second round loss to Casper Ruud meant he could have been overtaken.
Fritz would have qualified for Turin instead of Jodar if he defeated Alcaraz in the quarter-finals in Paris on Friday.
The 29-year-old American led 7-6(10), 5-3 and had two match points against Alcaraz before losing 7-6(10), 5-7, 3-6 in a pulsating contest.
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In a video on ATPTour.com, Jodar reacted to his achievement.
“I’m aware that I’ve had a great year,” said the 20-year-old.
“Very happy with how the season is going for me. I’ve improved a lot. I played against many top players.
“I think my mindset of not giving up and giving everything in every match has helped me to qualify for Turin.
“I’ll have to keep working hard and keep trusting myself with the same ambition as I’ve had this first year.”
