Spanish prodigy Jodar faces media scrutiny after stunning US Open loss to lucky loser Bu

Rafael Jodar clashed with the press after a stunning first-round exit to Chinese lucky loser Bu Yunchaokete at the US Open on Wednesday.

The 12th-seeded Spaniard failed to find his rhythm in his maiden US Open campaign, falling to Bu 6-2 6-1 6-1.

Returning to the venue of his junior title from two years prior, the 19-year-old appeared unusually off-form after his first-round clash was delayed by rain, culminating in a flurry of unforced errors during his defeat.

Having risen from 362nd to 13th in the world over the past year, Jodar continued to struggle for answers, even sending several rackets to be re-strung in an attempt to alter his fortunes.

However, his efforts proved futile. The 24-year-old Bu refused to loosen his grip, taking the first set and sealing the second after another unforced error from Jodar, silencing the vocal Spanish supporters on Court 17.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

World No 124 Bu completed the upset after an hour-long rain delay, securing his maiden Grand Slam main-draw victory on his seventh attempt.

“I’m a really lucky loser,” Bu said.

“After I lost in qualifying, I took a day off, but I saw a few guys pull out, so I made the decision to come back and tried to do some work in case I could play. Yesterday, they told me I could… when I heard that, I was super excited.”

Shoelace Scandal: Jodar Responds to Media Question

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Jodar was asked about social media discussions regarding his shoelaces breaking during matches, and whether he is now more aware of how he is perceived online.

Journalist: “Tough one. I’m sure you’ve probably seen online throughout the year some people talking about how your shoelaces break and things like that. I’m just wondering, are you more aware now of how you’ll be perceived online depending on what you said?”

Jodar: “What’s the question?”

Moderator: “It had to do with delays during matches.”

Jodar: “The shoelaces didn’t break today. So the question? What is the question? I don’t know. I don’t know the question.”

Journalist: “Sorry, I’m sure like when your shoelaces were breaking… I’m sure you noticed a lot of people were talking about it online. I’m wondering, are you worried that if you talk about your physical condition… if people might think you’re making excuses, basically?”

Jodar: “Doesn’t make sense.” Moderator: “We can go to the next question.”

Source link