Teenager Rafael Jódar came from two sets down for the first time in his career to defeat Pablo Carreño Busta 4-6, 4-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 and reach the quarter-finals of the French Open. The 19-year-old Spaniard produced a monumental comeback against his veteran compatriot, showcasing rare ball-striking ability and composure under pressure.
Breakthrough Season Continues
Jódar's rise has been one of the most significant stories of the year. In his first full clay-court season, he has amassed 19 wins and only three defeats, reaching the quarter-finals at every event including a title in Marrakech, a semi-final in Barcelona, and quarter-finals in Madrid and Rome. Ranked No. 707 a year ago, he is projected to rise to approximately No. 22 in the ATP rankings.
At the French Open, with many top contenders eliminated early, Jódar has seized the opportunity. After a tense start where he lost nine consecutive games from 4-1 up in the first set, he regrouped brilliantly, dominating Carreño Busta from the baseline in the final three sets.
Next Challenge: Alexander Zverev
Jódar now faces second seed Alexander Zverev, who defeated lucky loser Jesper de Jong 7-6 (3), 6-4, 6-1. Zverev is considered the title favourite after Jannik Sinner's early exit. Jódar, who was the favourite in his first four matches, may relish the underdog role and swing freely against an opponent carrying all the pressure.
Fonseca Also Advances
Brazilian teenager João Fonseca continued his breakthrough campaign by defeating twice runner-up Casper Ruud 7-5, 7-6 (8), 5-7, 6-2 to reach his first Grand Slam quarter-final. The 19-year-old, who earlier knocked out Novak Djokovic from two sets down, demonstrated growing confidence and composure on the biggest stage.
