Rafael Jodar secured his place in the third round of Roland-Garros 2026 with a four-set victory over James Duckworth, 6-1, 6-7(5), 6-4, 7-5. Unlike his straightforward opening match against Aleksandar Kovacevic, the Spaniard had to dig deeper, conceding his first set of the tournament before regaining control. He will now face American Alex Michelsen for a spot in the round of 16.
A tough opponent on clay
Jodar praised Duckworth’s performance, acknowledging the Australian’s serve and ability to disrupt rhythm. “He played very well, especially from the second set onwards. He serves very well and doesn’t give you a lot of rhythm, so you just have to make him play. I had to give my best to beat him today,” Jodar said, adding his congratulations to his opponent for the match.
Growth and confidence in 2026
Reflecting on his rapid rise, Jodar highlighted how much has changed in a year. “This year I play a lot of matches. I think I’ve grown a lot as a player and this match also really gives me confidence for the next one. It’s been a great year for me. I’m enjoying every tournament and every week that I’m playing on the tour,” he explained. He described 2026 as a learning year, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the mentality to improve in every match.
Physical challenges and resilience
The Spaniard required treatment from the physio after the second set due to discomfort in his leg. He explained that such issues are part of the demands of best-of-five contests on clay. “During the match a lot of things happen, especially when you are playing best of five sets. After the second set I needed some treatment from the physio and that really helped me to get better physically for the third and fourth sets,” Jodar said.
Handling pressure and attention
Jodar also addressed the growing attention around his performances and rising status. “I just try to enjoy first of all. That’s the most important thing when you are playing in a Grand Slam. Many people come to watch the matches, cheering for both players. That’s what makes not just this tournament, but all four Grand Slams special,” he stated.
With Michelsen awaiting in the next round, Jodar continues to balance the excitement of his breakthrough season with the discipline and resilience required to progress further in Paris.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDe403oWysA
ATP French Open - Alex Michelsen's projected path
Michelsen at the French Open, ranking, and results in 2026
Now the world no.42, the American has a 18-13 record in 2026. Alex is now having a run at the French Open where he ousted the world no.88 Alexander Shevchenko 6-2 6-4 6-2 and the world no.148 Nishesh Basavareddy 7-6(5) 6-3 3-6 6-3.
Alex Michelsen will fight against the world no.29 Rafael Jodar in the 3rd round. They have never played each other so far in top tournaments.
ATP French Open - Rafael Jodar's projected path
Jodar at the French Open, ranking, and results in 2026
Ranked world no.29 (career-high), Jodar owns a composed 35-10 match record in 2026. Rafael is now having a run at the French Open where he conquered the world no.67 Aleksandar Kovacevic 6-1 6-0 6-4 and the world no.82 James Duckworth 6-1 6-7(5) 6-4 7-5.
Rafael Jodar will fight against the world no.42 Alex Michelsen in the 3rd round. They have never played each other so far in top events.
Rafael clinched 1 title in 2026 in Marrakech. Rafael was the finalist in the Canberra Challenger.
Alex Michelsen and Rafael Jodar have never squared off.
