Rafael Jodar has arrived.
The Spanish prodigy, who turned professional this year, has already proven why he is one of the most exciting talents on the ATP Tour.
The 19-year-old was ranked 347th in the world this time last year, and has since risen 292 places to world number 55.
Last week, the youngster won his first ATP Tour title in Marrakech, beating 36-year-old Marco Trungelliti in the final.
Jodar has continued his fine form in Barcelona, demolishing compatriot Jaume Munar in the first round.
Rafael Jodar is a top 10 ATP player in waiting
Rafael Jodar is the next big ATP star.
On Monday, Jodar comprehensively defeated Jaume Munar 6-1, 6-2, sending out a clear message to his peers on the ATP Tour.
| Statistical Area | Rafael Jodar | Jaume Munar |
| Aces | 0 | 0 |
| Double-faults | 2 | 3 |
| First-serve percentage | 48 | 71 |
| First-serve points won [%] | 81 | 50 |
| Second-serve points won [%] | 65 | 38 |
| Winners | 27 | 4 |
| Unforced errors | 23 | 20 |
| Break points saved | 0/0 | 4/8 |
Jodar has arrived, and he is destined for a spot in the ATP top 10.
Jodar’s ball-striking against Munar was comparable to some of the very best players on the ATP Tour.
In fact, across the first set against Munar, Jodar’s forehand shot quality was rated 9.6 out of 10 by Tennis TV. Remarkably, the Spaniard’s backhand shot quality was also rated 9.4 out of 10.
You only have to watch a few of Jodar’s highlights to understand how special a talent he is: the Spaniard already possesses one of the most powerful forehands on the Tour and seems at home on the clay-court surface.
Jodar struck 27 winners to Munar’s four; and if the young Spaniard continues to perform in this manner, he could be set for a very impressive run in Barcelona.
Who will Rafael Jodar play next in Barcelona?
Jodar, a wildcard in Barcelona, will play Camilo Ugo Carabelli or fourth seed Karen Khachanov in the Barcelona Open second round.
If Jodar advances to the quarter-finals, he will play Cameron Norrie or Ethan Quinn.
If the Spaniard continues to progress, he would likely play Lorenzo Musetti or Arthur Fils in the semi-finals.
Jodar could play Carlos Alcaraz in Barcelona, should he reach the final.
Jodar, who has previously practiced with Alcaraz at the Davis Cup, spoke about receiving advice from his compatriot – and Rafael Nadal – after winning the Marrakech Open.
“I’m somewhat in the middle, so I take advantage of the best of both,” said Jodar. “I take the advice Rafa [Nadal] gives me when I talk to him and also that of Carlos when we coincide.
“I don’t stick with just one: I try to create a good and healthy environment, and I gladly accept all advice from Spanish players.”
