Rafael Jodar is pushing back against criticism after a video from his French Open match sparked widespread discussion on social media.
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The 19-year-old Spanish tennis player found himself at the center of controversy during his third-round match against American Alex Michelsen when a clip circulated online appearing to show an interaction with a ball girl between sets.
The footage showed Jodar walking near the sideline after tossing a water bottle toward his father in the stands. As a ball girl crossed in front of him, some viewers speculated on social media that contact may have occurred after she briefly appeared to lose her balance.
Following the match, Jodar strongly denied that he touched the ball girl.
"I didn't touch her," he told reporters.
🔴 INFO - #Sport : Roland-Garros 2026 : l'Espagnol Rafael Jódar accusé d'avoir poussé une ramasseuse de balles, mais les ralentis ne montrent aucun contact. Le joueur dément fermement : « Je ne l’ai pas touchée ». 🎾🇪🇸❌👧 #RafaelJódar pic.twitter.com/l3ckhmEcpM
— FranceNews24 (@FranceNews24) May 30, 2026
Jodar said the moment was being misinterpreted and explained that his actions were directed toward his father, whom he was signaling following a brief break during the match.
The rising Spanish star also emphasized his appreciation for the ball kids who work throughout Grand Slam events.
"I really appreciate everything the ball kids do," Jodar said. "I know it's not easy, especially with the heat and everything. I would never push a ball kid."
While the video generated significant attention online, Jodar managed to keep his focus on the court.
The teenager rallied to defeat Michelsen in a grueling five-set match, earning a place in the fourth round of a Grand Slam tournament for the first time in his career.
