The road to the semis ATP
Mutua Madrid Open 2026 continues to take shape, and yesterday’s action brought the men’s draw into sharp focus, which explains one of the main stories of the tournament: Jannik Sinner’s path to the title. The world’s best defeated Rafa Jódar 6–2, 7–6 in a match where his experience proved vital at key moments, especially during a flawless final break. Nevertheless, the young Spaniard reaffirmed his dominance, going toe-to-toe with Sinner for most of the second set and cementing his status as one of the tournament’s standout revelations.
Beyond that match, the day also decided Sinner’s semi-final opponent: Arthur Fils. The Frenchman presented a composed and confident game to defeat Jiří Lehečka 6–3, 6–4extending his strong run on clay and reinforcing the idea that he is one of the most dangerous young players on tour right now. His strength from the ground up and growing maturity make this upcoming clash with Sinner all the more compelling—a meeting between the circuit’s greatest power and one of its most exciting new antagonists.
(AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)
Elsewhere in ATP points, the remaining semifinal spots will be decided in today’s quarterfinals. Alexander Zverev will face Flavio Cobolli in a match where Zverev’s experience – he is a two-time Madrid champion – will be tested by the Italian’s continued rise. Meanwhile, Casper Ruud faces Alexander Blockx in a contrast of styles: Ruud’s consistency and clay court discipline against the fearless, free swing game of the young Belgian.
These matches will complete an already promising semi-final schedule, with Sinner and Fils waiting in the top half and feeling that the margins are getting smaller with each round. The competition has grown steadily, and now every point feels heavy.
In many ways, Madrid fits its definition. The world’s best continues to assert its dominance, but the new generation—led here by players like Jódar and Fils—make it clear they are ready to challenge that dominance. Today’s games won’t just decide who moves on; they will help bring out the true power in this year’s Mutua Madrid Open.
