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Jannik Sinner overcame a strong challenge from Rafael Jodar to reach the Madrid semi-finals, praising the teenager’s emerging talent.

Jannik Sinner ended Rafael Jodar's breakout run at the Madrid Open, but not before acknowledging the teenager's impact with a message on the camera lens, describing him as an "incredible player".

The world No.1 overcame the 19-year-old Spaniard 6-2, 7-6 (7-0) in a high-quality quarter-final at the Caja Magica, sealing the match in just under two hours. While Sinner controlled the opening set, Jodar pushed him in the second, forcing the Italian to save five break points before dominating the tie-break.

Sinner closed the match by winning the final 11 points in succession, underlining the level required to halt Jodar's rapid rise. He later urged caution around expectations, noting the importance of allowing young players time to develop without excessive pressure.

Jodar entered the contest in strong form, having defeated world No.8 Alex de Minaur in straight sets and progressed past Joao Fonseca earlier in the tournament. His performances in Madrid have accelerated a significant rankings climb, with the Spaniard set to rise from outside the top 600 a year ago to around No.34 next week.

Playing in front of a home crowd and in the absence of injured compatriot Carlos Alcaraz, Jodar had carried local hopes deep into the event. His run also follows a maiden tour title in Morocco earlier this month, reinforcing his emergence on the ATP circuit.

Despite the defeat, Jodar said the match provided valuable experience, pointing to periods where he was able to match Sinner from the baseline. He indicated there were clear positives to take as he continues to develop at the top level.

Sinner advances to the semi-finals, where he will face Arthur Fils, who defeated Jiri Lehecka in straight sets. The Italian remains on track for a fifth consecutive Masters title and a second clay-court crown this season following his Monte Carlo success.