Road to semis ATP

The Mutua Madrid Open 2026 continues to take shape, and yesterday’s action brought the men’s draw into sharper focus, defining one of the tournament’s main storylines: Jannik Sinner’s path toward the title. The world number one overcame Rafa Jódar 6–2, 7–6 in a match where his experience proved decisive in the key moments, especially in a flawless final tie-break. Still, the young Spaniard once again confirmed his breakthrough, going toe-to-toe with Sinner for much of the second set and cementing his status as one of the standout revelations of the tournament.

Beyond that match, the day also determined Sinner’s semifinal opponent: Arthur Fils. The Frenchman delivered a composed and confident performance to defeat Jiří Lehečka 6–3, 6–4, extending his strong run on clay and reinforcing the sense that he’s one of the most dangerous rising players on tour right now. His power from the baseline and growing maturity make this upcoming clash with Sinner especially compelling—a meeting between the circuit's dominant force and one of its most exciting young challengers.

(AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Elsewhere in the ATP draw, the remaining semifinal spots will be decided in today’s quarterfinals. Alexander Zverev takes on Flavio Cobolli in a matchup where Zverev’s experience—he’s a two-time Madrid champion—will be tested against the Italian’s steady rise. Meanwhile, Casper Ruud faces Alexander Blockx in a contrast of styles: Ruud’s consistency and clay-court discipline against the fearless, free-swinging game of the young Belgian.

These matches will complete a semifinal lineup that already promises a very high level, with Sinner and Fils waiting on the top half and the sense that margins are becoming thinner with every round. The tournament has steadily built intensity, and now every point feels heavier.

In many ways, Madrid is entering its defining stretch. The world number one continues to assert his dominance, but the new generation—led here by players like Jódar and Fils—is making it clear they’re ready to challenge that hierarchy. Today’s matches won’t just decide who moves on; they’ll help reveal the true balance of power in this year’s Mutua Madrid Open.