Learn more about the 18-year-old Spaniard who is a sparring partner at the Next Gen ATP Finals presented by PIF this week

At just 17 years old, Rafael Jodar made headlines in New York and Spain in September when he became the latest talent to win the US Open Boys’ Singles title. It was a milestone moment for the young Spaniard that could mark the start of a long and successful career.

But for Jodar, it’s just one milestone in what promises to be a long journey. As he embarks on this next phase, Jodar finds himself in Jeddah this week serving as a hitting partner at the Next Gen ATP Finals presented by PIF. The world’s best eight 20-and-under talents gather to compete at the event, with Jodar gaining the chance to train alongside Arthur Fils and 'co.' as a sparring partner.

While resting in between sparring sessions with Fils and Martin Landaluce on Thursday, Jodar spoke to ATPTour.com about his New York success and his Jeddah opportunity.

“When I knew that I was going to come here, I was really excited to come to Jeddah, to be able to hit with all these players that I think are great players,” Jodar told ATPTour.com. “Of course, I think it's also a really good preseason for me. This month, I don't have any tournaments, so it will be really helpful to practise with them, to warm up with them, to see what they do before the matches, after matches, to be inside everything at the event. So I'm really grateful to the ATP, to be invited here, so hopefully it will be a really good week.

“This year I had an incredible moment at the US Open and I was really proud of myself. I was very happy because all the hard work I had been doing during my whole life showed in that tournament. I played against great players there, because the best juniors are playing in those big events. I think that's the first step in my career.”

Jodar’s journey in tennis began at age six and has been intertwined with that of his close friend and fellow rising talent Landaluce. Both grew up in Madrid and trained at the same tennis club, Club de Tenis Chamartin. Their bond extends beyond just tennis, having shared countless hours on the court and spent time together off it.

"Martin is a really, really nice guy, from the same tennis club as me. We started playing against each other when we were really young. We have a really good relationship,” Jodar said. “When we are in Madrid, we usually practise together. We also spent some time together off court because he’s a really nice guy to spend time with.”

Their bond is one of mutual respect and shared experiences, both pushing each other to improve over the years. Landaluce, who recently won his first ATP Challenger title in Italy, shares similar sentiments.

"We’ve spent about 10 years playing the same tournaments. He’s at a good level now, winning the US Open juniors, and I hope he can get to the top," Landaluce said. "We trained together at the same club, saw each other on the courts, and spent time in the swimming pool. I’ve been watching him for a long time, and he’s a really nice guy."

While he is close with Landaluce, Jodar is a big admirer of Spanish sensation Carlos Alcaraz. The 18-year-old recalled his early memories of watching the former World No. 1 in action and spoke with excitement when recalling the first time he practised with Alcaraz at the Davis Cup this year.

"I remember his match against Tsitsipas at the US Open, that crazy match that he won in five sets. That was the first time I watched him, and after that, I started watching all his matches," Jodar said. “He’s a great person.

“I had the chance to talk with him when I was a hitting partner at the Davis Cup and we had a really nice conversation about all the tournaments and how the season was for him. When we were on court, he gave me some advice and tips that were really helpful for me. Of course, I would like to play against him one day.”

 Carlos Alcaraz/Rafael Jodar
Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Jodar at the Davis Cup. Photo: Getty Images

With the US Open title now in his rearview mirror and Alcaraz’s advice at hand, Jodar’s focus is on transitioning to the ATP Challenger Tour in 2025. The next 12 months will be pivotal for the World No. 894 Jodar, who aims to make the leap to the ATP Challenger Tour, where the competition is more intense and the stakes higher.

Thanks to the Next Gen Accelerator, Jodar will have access to valuable opportunities, including eight main-draw spots in ATP Challenger 50s and 75s and spots in ITF 15K and 25K events.

“I will finish the year as a Top 10 junior, so that would be really helpful with the ATP Next Gen Accelerator programme. I will have eight main-draw spots in ATP Challenger 50s and 75s. That will be really helpful to develop as a player, and also in ITF 15K and 25K events, I will have some spots,” Jodar explained. “I think the goal is now to that transition as a professional tennis player. I know it's going to be a tough moment in my life because I will have to compete against older players who are more experienced than me, but I think it's a process. And I think I’m on the right path.”

Jodar’s maturity and determination are evident when discussing the challenges ahead. He knows that the next stage will be demanding but feels prepared for what’s to come.

"It’s really good because I’ve been playing juniors for two or three years. The Tour giving juniors these opportunities with the Accelerator Programme is a great initiative,” Jodar said. “It’s a chance to grow and develop."

Away from the court, Jodar enjoys a variety of hobbies, which help keep him grounded. Football, particularly as a Real Madrid fan, is one of his biggest passions.

"I’m a big Real Madrid fan. When I won the US Open, I did Jude Bellingham’s celebration and then got to meet him. It was incredible" Jodar said. "I also like playing chess and the strategy side of chess. It’s a game that helps me stay focused, and I think that relates to tennis.”


Rafael Jodar celebrates winning the US Open Boys' singles title. Photo Credit: Getty Images
With the US Open title and Jeddah experience under his belt, Jodar is determined to continue his ascent in tennis. His talent, work ethic, and strong network of mentors put him in an excellent position for future success. But Jodar knows that there is still a long road ahead.

"Winning the US Open and hitting here in Jeddah is just the start," Jodar said. "I know there’s a lot of work to be done, but I’m ready to fight. I’m excited for the challenges ahead."