Rafael Jodar Equals Novak Djokovic Masters Record in Shanghai

Rafael Jodar has reached the round of 16 in five consecutive ATP Masters 1000 tournaments, matching a milestone last achieved at the same age by Novak Djokovic in 2007.

Victory in Shanghai Extends Debut Season

Playing in his first professional season after turning pro in December 2025, the 20-year-old Spanish player secured his 40th tour-level win of the year at the Shanghai Masters. Jodar defeated the Czech Republic’s Jiri Lehecka 4:6, 7:6 (2), 6:4 in a hard-fought third-round match.

That victory improved his 2026 match record to 40 wins against 16 losses. More significantly, it extended an active streak across top-tier events that places the young Spaniard in rare statistical company.

Chasing the 2007 Djokovic Benchmark

Jodar’s run of reaching at least the round of 16 in five consecutive Masters 1000 appearances spans tournaments in Madrid, Rome, Montreal, Cincinnati, and Shanghai. Records show that the last player to accomplish that feat at age 20 was Novak Djokovic in 2007.

In 2007, a 20-year-old Djokovic reached the final in Indian Wells, won his maiden Masters title in Miami, made the round of 16 in Monte Carlo, and reached the quarterfinals in both Rome and Hamburg.

Race to Turin Implications

Beyond his tournament run in China, Jodar remains in contention for a spot at the season-ending ATP Finals. Entering the week ranked 11th in the Race to Turin, the Spaniard boosted his qualification hopes by defeating Botic van de Zandschulp in Shanghai.

Strong results at the penultimate Masters 1000 event of the season leave Jodar within striking distance of overtaking players like Alex de Minaur and Novak Djokovic in the race for the top eight qualifying positions.

Next Scheduled Matches

Jodar continues his campaign in the Shanghai singles draw as the tournament progresses toward the later rounds, with updated fixtures dependent on his upcoming match results.