Rafael Jódar: Spain's Rising Tennis Star Makes Waves in Madrid

Rafael Jódar celebrated his first-round win at the Madrid Open by mimicking soccer star Jude Bellingham's goal celebration. Jódar, a Real Madrid fan, met Bellingham during the event, expressing admiration for him. Jódar is now ranked No. 42 globally after impressive performances in recent tournaments.

Devdiscourse News Desk | Madrid | Updated: 23-04-2026 09:21 IST | Created: 23-04-2026 09:21 IST

Rafael Jódar: Spain's Rising Tennis Star Makes Waves in Madrid

Country:
Spain

Rafael Jódar, Spain's latest tennis prodigy, captured the spotlight with a first-round victory at the Madrid Open. Following his win, the homegrown talent mimicked the iconic goal celebration of Jude Bellingham, England's soccer sensation and a Real Madrid star, who was present in the audience.

After the match, Jódar, a fervent Real Madrid fan, took the opportunity to connect with Bellingham, writing 'Hey Jude' on a TV camera lens. The two athletes later posed together, replicating the celebration move. Jódar expressed his admiration for Bellingham, revealing the soccer star's significant inspiration in his career.

Jódar's triumph marks his entry among the tennis elite, being only the third Spaniard under 20 to achieve a main-draw win in Madrid, joining the ranks of legends like Rafael Nadal. With a recent ATP win in Marrakech and a skyrocketing rise in global rankings, Jódar is set to face Alex de Minaur next.

(With inputs from agencies.)