Carlos Alcaraz has set his sights on a first encounter with fellow Spaniard Rafael Jodar after returning to winning form at the Vienna Open. Alcaraz said he is excited about the possibility of facing Jodar and practising with him at a tournament.
Alcaraz praised Jodar’s character and achievements, saying he was happy to see the rising player earn his position. He also welcomed having another Spaniard among the leading players and described watching Jodar play as a pleasure.
The Vienna title was Alcaraz’s second since returning to the ATP Tour in September, following his victory at the Japan Open in early October. He will next aim to win either the Paris Masters or the ATP Finals for the first time, having previously found indoor hard courts challenging.
Alcaraz and Jodar are in the same half of the Paris Masters draw and could meet in the semifinals. A meeting at the ATP Finals is also possible: Alcaraz has qualified for the Turin event, while Jodar is ninth in the race, a position that could be sufficient after Jannik Sinner’s withdrawal.
Jodar would mathematically secure qualification by reaching the Paris final. He could also qualify by finishing ahead of Alex de Minaur, Novak Djokovic, Taylor Fritz, Tommy Paul and Jiri Lehecka in the tournament. He opened his Paris campaign with a win over Alejandro Tabilo and is due to face Casper Ruud in the second round.
Sources: Tennis365.