Rafael Jodar Becomes Shanghai Masters’ Youngest Semifinalist

Rafael Jodar, a 20-year-old Spaniard, recovered from losing the first set to beat Casper Ruud 4-6, 6-4, 6-3. The victory made him the youngest semifinalist in Shanghai Masters history and set up a meeting with Daniil Medvedev. [11] Why it matters: Jodar’s win combines a tournament age record with a concrete next test: Medvedev advanced by beating Tommy Paul 6-3, 1-6, 6-3. Both semifinal opponents therefore arrived through three-set quarterfinal victories. [11] Key insights: Jodar’s record concerns the Shanghai Masters specifically, not all Masters tournaments. [11] | He won the final two sets after Ruud took the opener, making the route to the record a comeback rather than a straight-sets victory. [11] | Medvedev also needed three sets to advance, although he won the opening set before Paul forced a decider. [11] Cheatsheet facts: What happened: At 20, Rafael Jodar became the youngest semifinalist in Shanghai Masters history. [11] | Why: He recovered from a set down to beat Casper Ruud 4-6, 6-4, 6-3. [11] | What's next: Jodar faces Daniil Medvedev, who beat Tommy Paul 6-3, 1-6, 6-3. [11]