World No. 1 Jannik Sinner advanced to the semifinals of the Mutua Madrid Open on Wednesday, defeating Spanish teenager Rafael Jodar 6-2, 7-6(0). The victory extends Sinner’s winning streak to 21 matches and secures his place in the final four of all nine ATP Masters 1000 events.
Sinner faced a tough challenge from the 19-year-old Jodar, who has been rapidly rising in the ATP rankings. The match took place in front of a vibrant crowd at Manolo Santana Stadium, with a closed roof amplifying the atmosphere.
The Italian star controlled the first set, taking it 6-2. The second set proved more competitive, going to a tiebreak which Sinner dominated, winning 7-6(0). He saved all seven break points he faced throughout the one-hour, 55-minute contest.
“He pushed me to the limit,” Sinner said after the match. “He’s an incredible player. I tried to be ready as much as I could. But I’m incredibly happy. It was a very high quality match. I got a bit lucky in the second set, but also [had] a bit of experience. I’m obviously very happy to be in the semis here for the first time. It means a lot to me.”
Sinner will now await the winner of the match between Barcelona champion Arthur Fils and Jiri Lehecka in the semifinals. The win puts Sinner within reach of a historic achievement: becoming the first man to win five consecutive Masters 1000 titles, having already claimed victories in Paris, Indian Wells, Miami and Monte-Carlo.
Jodar’s performance has been attracting attention since the start of the 2026 season, and his recent surge has been particularly impressive. Despite the loss, the young Spaniard demonstrated his potential on the world stage.
