Rafa Jodar’s breakthrough run at Roland Garros has brought fresh attention to one strict rule involving his player box.
The 19-year-old Spaniard is into the quarter-finals in Paris after coming from two sets down to beat Pablo Carreño Busta 4-6, 4-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-2.
Jodar will now face Alexander Zverev for a place in the semi-finals, but one detail away from the tennis has also attracted attention during his run.
Rafa Jodar has a strict rule for his Roland Garros box
Mundo Deportivo reported that Jódar does not want anyone outside his team sitting in his technical box during matches at Roland Garros.
The issue centres on the seats next to his father, Rafa Jodar senior, who is also his coach and manager.
Jódar explained that the box is reserved for members of his team, and that his team currently consists of himself and his father.
He said that some spectators may not realise they are sitting in that area, but added that they are reminded to move back to their own seats because they are not part of his team.
Jódar’s father is both coach and manager
The arrangement reflects the close working relationship between Jodar and his father. Jódar described his father as his coach and manager, and said that arrangement will continue this year.
He also spoke about the connection between them, explaining that his father can see things from outside the court that he cannot always pick up while playing.
Jodar added that his father has travelled with him throughout the season, something he appreciates because of the demands of moving from tournament to tournament.
Jodar has reached the quarter-finals in Paris
Jodar’s comments come during the biggest run of his career so far. ATP reported that he reached the Roland Garros quarter-finals in only the second Grand Slam of his career after his comeback win over Carreño Busta.
The victory took Jódar into the last eight after he recovered from a two-set deficit against his fellow Spaniard.
Tennis Majors also reported that it was the first Grand Slam quarter-final of Jódar’s career.
Jodar prefers a quiet routine during tournaments
Jodar also explained that he prefers to keep a simple routine during tournaments. He said it is difficult to go sightseeing or take walks during an event, and that his routine is mainly from the hotel to the club and back again.
Jodar added that he likes to relax in the hotel, speak with friends on the phone and watch series when he has time away from the court.
That quieter approach has become part of his Roland Garros story, alongside the rule around his player box and the prominent role of his father.
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