“This is not justifiable” – Tennis world furious at Rafael Jodar after Spaniard screams at ball kid during heated Shanghai Masters moment

Rafael Jodar has landed in a fresh controversy involving a ball kid at the 2026 Shanghai Masters.

By Urvi Mehra · Sportskeeda

Published: Wednesday, 14 October 2026 at 4:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Rafael Jodar faced heavy backlash after screaming profanities at a ball kid during the Shanghai Masters.
Chair umpire Jimmy Pinoargote issued Jodar a code violation for unsportsmanlike conduct during the match.
Jodar rallied to defeat Botic van de Zandschulp 6-7(4), 6-4, 6-2 to reach the quarterfinals.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Spanish tennis player Rafael Jodar faced widespread backlash after yelling at a ball kid during his fourth-round match at the 2026 Shanghai Masters. In a heated moment while waiting for his towel, Jodar used profanity, prompting chair umpire Jimmy Pinoargote to issue a code violation for unsportsmanlike conduct despite the player's protests.

Journalist José Morón and numerous fans heavily criticized the 20-year-old's behavior, referencing previous controversies involving ball kids. Despite the incident, Jodar defeated Botic van de Zandschulp 6-7(4), 6-4, 6-2 to secure a quarterfinal matchup against Casper Ruud.

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