Rafael Jodar, a 19-year-old Spaniard, showcased a powerful performance in his French Open debut by defeating Aleksandar Kovacevic 6-1, 6-0, 6-4 at Roland Garros. Jodar, who arrived in Paris with strong momentum from a successful European clay season, lived up to the expectations with a commanding victory. This win marked his first seeding at a Grand Slam event, where he displayed relentless aggression and control throughout the match.
Jodar’s triumph over Kovacevic improved his 2026 clay-court record to an impressive 16 wins and three losses, establishing him as a rising star on the ATP Tour this year. Despite starting the season ranked 168th globally, Jodar has climbed to a career-best No. 29 in the ATP Rankings, fueled by his exceptional performances. His recent achievements include claiming his maiden ATP Tour title in Marrakech and reaching the quarterfinals in the prestigious Masters events in Madrid and Rome.
In the match against Kovacevic, Jodar exhibited confidence and maturity, overpowering his opponent who struggled to match his intensity and skill. Jodar secured the first two sets with ease, conceding only one game, before comfortably wrapping up the third set, delivering a standout performance in the opening round. Next, Jodar is set to face James Duckworth, who advanced following Gabriel Diallo’s retirement while trailing 6-1, 4-1.
Fellow Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta caused an upset in the bottom half of the draw by defeating 12th seed Jiri Lehecka 6-3, 7-6(3), 6-3. Meanwhile, Alex Michelsen secured a straightforward 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 victory over Aleksandr Shevchenko, setting up a clash with wildcard Nishesh Basavareddy, who stunned seventh seed Taylor Fritz in the previous round.
