World No.2 Carlos Alcaraz said his compatriots, Rafael Jodar and Martin Landaluce, have a great future ahead of them. Alcaraz, who has already risen to great heights in his young career, is sharing the Barcelona Open draw with Jodar and Landaluce.
Jodar recently won the Grand Prix Hassan II, also defeating fourth-seed Tomas Machac in his impressive run to the title.
On the other hand, Landaluce recently qualified for the semifinal of the Challenger Monza, IT.
“Rafa is an outstanding player, if I’m honest,” the World No. 2 said of his countryman, who has now chalked up six consecutive ATP Tour wins after securing his maiden title in Marrakech. “I’ve been following him and I think he’s broken into the Tour really quickly.”
Alcaraz has known Jodar since 2024, when the Madrid native joined the Spanish Davis Cup team. “He took an opportunity to be a sparring partner, so I was able to train with him and see what he was capable of,” Alcaraz said. But it was not the only time he has spent on court with the player, who is three years his junior.
“This year in Australia I was able to play a practice set with him and witness his level. From Australia until now, what he’s achieved has been amazing,” Alcaraz said. “I’m really pleased for him, because you can see he’s an outstanding guy both on and off the court, with incredible values and, above all, [he is] very chill off the court.”
On his relationship with Jodar, Alcaraz said, “I wish him all the best. Whenever he plays well, wins a tournament or gets a good result, I try to congratulate him and, above all, I’m really pleased for him.”
Alcaraz also praised Landaluce for rising through the ranks and ticking the right boxes.
“It helps [Jodar] a lot to have players his age also breaking through, like Landaluce, who, for me, is also an incredible player. I had the chance to practise with him before heading to Monte-Carlo,” Alcaraz said. “I think the two of them will mutually help each other to keep improving and reach the top. They have a great future.”
Alcaraz will take on Tomas Machac in the round of 16 in the Barcelona Open on Thursday.
