Musetti gives his opinion on Jódar after training with him at the Barcelona Open 2026

Pedro de Pablos | 16 Apr 2026 | 19.25

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Lorenzo Musetti has been the standout player on Thursday at the Barcelona Open 2026. The Italian tennis player showcased a great game to reach the quarterfinals of the tournament for the first time since 2023, regaining his top form after weeks of physical issues. In the press conference, he discussed his title chances and new talents like Rafael Jódar and Joao Fonseca.

Musetti is aware that with Carlos Alcaraz out due to his wrist injury, he is now one of the top contenders for the title. However, he preferred to proceed cautiously and not burden himself with too much responsibility before his next match, which will be against Arthur Fils or Brandon Nakashima. He also revealed that he had the chance to train with Jódar before the tournament started, predicting a bright future for him and other emerging talents on the circuit.

Full press conference of Lorenzo Musetti after advancing to the quarterfinals in the Barcelona Open

Match against Moutet

I think it was a very interesting match, very enjoyable for me, and I believe also for the spectators. It was challenging because there was quite a bit of wind today, and it wasn't constant, so it was not easy. But I think I played a good match against a player who is in good form and whose play I really enjoyed. I am happy to be in the quarterfinals. It's not easy to play against him. For example, on his serve, he started from below, so I had to be alert for that shot and others on every point. It consumes your energy, mentally and physically. But I have played against him several times and knew how to handle all of that. I am pleased with how I performed today.

More challenging to play against Moutet or a server looking for quick winners

It's not easy to play against either of them because they are two types of players who play completely differently. But I think it's easier with a player who lets you play and if you aren't feeling right on a particular day, you can seek your rhythm during long points. I believe there are several opportunities in the match to find your game. With server players, I think it's difficult; you have very few chances. I played against Perricard several times last year and won 3 or 4 times. It's always hard because they put a lot of pressure on you when serving. I think it's a bit tougher, especially on fast surfaces, against servers.

Physical condition after the injuries

Well, I think I feel better every day. Talking about confidence, not just technically but also physically and mentally. I think what was lacking were the battles, the struggle, and the suffering that should be in matches. That was somewhat evident in Monte Carlo and Indian Wells, where I wasn't the same Lorenzo as in the early months of the year. I don't know in what percentage I am; I believe I am improving every day and will surely play a good match at a good level. I hope tomorrow will be better.

Chances of winning after Alcaraz's withdrawal

It was a shame when Carlos announced his withdrawal because I always like to compete against the best. I wish him a swift recovery. The draw on our side opened up a bit because Carlos was the favorite for the tournament. Now I will focus on my matches and not think if Miñaur's defeat was surprising. These tournaments are like that, the entire season is like that. You have to concentrate on your game and the matches you have to play. I will see who my opponent will be tomorrow and analyze the match to play.

Emergence of Rafa Jódar and new talents

"I had the opportunity to train with Rafa in the days before the tournament. He seems like a nice guy who works very diligently and has a hardworking and professional mindset. That is a significant advantage for his future. I like his style of play; he is very aggressive starting from the return. He has both shots very well. Certainly, the backhand is what comes more naturally to him. He hits the ball hard for a young player. Also Landaluce, whom I played against in the first match, Fonseca, or Menšík.

All young players will be very aggressive right from the start of the point; I believe modern tennis is heading in that direction. I think he is a good prospect for the future. He is not the traditional Spanish clay-court player who plays with a lot of spin. I think the generation is evolving and becoming more aggressive from the beginning of the match."

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This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Musetti opina sobre Jódar tras entrenar con él en el Barcelona Open 2026