POZOBLANCO/STARNBERG, July 15, 2025

Two of Spain’s brightest young tennis prospects, Rafael Jodar and Daniel Merida, booked their places in the round of 16 at the Open Ciudad de Pozoblanco Covap – Memorial Fabián Dorado, following impressive first-round comebacks at the ATP Challenger 75 event, now celebrating its 30th edition in the Andalusian town of Pozoblanco.

Jodar, the 2024 US Open junior champion, overcame fellow Spaniard Nicolas Alvarez Varona 3-6, 6-2, 6-4 in an exciting match. The Madrid native showed early nerves, conceding a break in the opening game and struggling to convert five break points during the first set. But despite losing it 3-6, Jodar’s late-set surge hinted at what was to come. He grew in confidence, dominating with his serve and dictating rallies. Two breaks sealed the second set, and even after dropping serve to start the decider, he bounced back emphatically—reeling off four consecutive games to take control and eventually close out the match with authority.

“I started tight, but once I settled in, I found my game,” said Jodar. “These matches are great for gaining experience at this level.”

Daniel Merida (photo: Open Ciudad de Pozoblanco)

Merida, the tournament’s No. 5 seed, was also forced to dig deep against Frenchman Robin Bertrand, a semifinalist here in 2024. Bertrand struck first, taking the opening set in a tense tiebreak. Merida responded with a dominant second set, capitalizing on his opponent’s dip in intensity. The third set started with drama – Bertrand held four break points in the opening game – but Merida stood firm, saving them all. That game proved pivotal, as the Spaniard didn’t drop another game, cruising to a 6-7(5), 6-1, 6-1 victory.

“I knew he was dangerous—he’s done well here before,” Merida said post-match. “I just focused on staying solid, and once I found my rhythm, I didn’t let go.”

There was disappointment for local wildcard Alejandro Lopez Escribano, who was unable to complete a Spanish sweep on opening day. Despite showing glimpses of promise and leading early in the first set, the Cordoba-born player fell to Portugal’s Tiago Pereira after missing key chances in both sets.

In the Monday’s final match, rising Lithuanian talent Edas Butvilas showcased his comfort on the fast Spanish hard courts. The 2023 standout delivered a strong serving performance and broke early in each set to overcome China’s Jie Cui 6-2, 6-4. The 19-year-old held off multiple break points in the second set to seal the win and advance with confidence.

First Round Results – Open Ciudad de Pozoblanco

Rafael Jodar (ESP) def. Nicolas Alvarez Varona (ESP) 3-6, 6-2, 6-4

Tiago Pereira (POR) def. [WC] Alejandro Lopez Escribano (ESP)

Daniel Merida (ESP) [5] def. Robin Bertrand (FRA) 6-7(5), 6-1, 6-1

Edas Butvilas (LTU) def. Jie Cui (CHN) 6-2, 6-4