‘Give Me the F*cking Towel’: Rafael Jodar Scolds Ball Boy at Shanghai Masters 2026, Gets Warned By Umpire Before Reaching Quarterfinals | WATCH

Rafael Jodar found himself at the centre of controversy at the Shanghai Masters after reportedly directing an abusive remark at a ball boy during his second-round match against Botic van de Zandschulp. The Spanish youngster was penalised for unsportsmanlike conduct after the chair umpire, Ecuadorian official Jimmy Pinoargote, heard him demand a towel using offensive language.

The incident drew criticism, with observers arguing that frustration on court does not justify speaking disrespectfully to tournament staff. However, Jodar recovered from losing a tight opening-set tiebreak to defeat Van de Zandschulp 6-7 (4), 6-4, 6-2 in approximately two and a half hours, securing his place in the quarterfinals.

Rafael Jodar’s Exchange With Ball Boy Sparks Controversy