Monday Match Analysis Fokina's Shanghai Mastery, Jodar's Returning & 2026 Disappointment Rankings | Mailbag
Oct 24, 2026
Alejandro Davidovich Fokina’s breakthrough Shanghai triumph takes center stage, including Rafael Jodar’s electric return game, missed chances, and fiery behavior. The discussion turns to 2026’s biggest disappointments, judging greatness across eras, Monfils and Svitolina’s personal headlines, and Joao Fonseca’s contrasting seasons. Plus, a debate over Zverev’s unusual year-end No. 1 ranking and tennis play-by-play.
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Jodar Missed The Best Tactical Target
- Jodar’s cross-court-heavy backhand repeatedly fed Fokina’s reliable backhand instead of testing his shakier forehand.
- Jodar hit only 12% of backhands down the line, yet won every point when he placed that shot near the sideline.
Jodar Needs More Reliable Ways To Finish
- Jodar should sharpen his finishing options, especially volleys and disguised drop shots, because his depth and court position already create frequent attacks.
- Against elite defenders, more reliable ways to close points can convert his strong foundational ball striking into wins.
Draper Headlined The 2026 Disappointment Rankings
- Gill Gross ranked Jack Draper’s injury-plagued 2026 as the year’s biggest disappointment, followed by Lorenzo Musetti and Casper Ruud.
- Taylor Fritz and Felix Auger-Aliassime also made the list after falling short of expectations despite avoiding disastrous seasons.