Alejandro Davidovich Fokina has enjoyed a remarkable turnaround in 2026, capping his return from injury with a maiden ATP Masters 1000 title at the Rolex Shanghai Masters.
The Spaniard overcame a difficult start against fellow countryman Rafael Jodar in the final, recovering from a set down and a break deficit to secure the biggest title of his career. Despite feeling the pressure, the 27-year-old relied on his experience and physical strength to turn the match around and complete an impressive run in Shanghai.
“Today I was more tight, more nervous,” Davidovich Fokina admitted after the victory.
He recognised that Jodar, one of the tour's rising talents, could make mistakes under pressure and focused on moving his younger opponent around the court. The strategy paid off as Davidovich Fokina gradually gained control and found a way to secure the championship.
The victory was particularly meaningful given the Spaniard's struggles earlier in the year. A back injury forced him to spend two months away from competition, leaving him with the challenge of rebuilding his fitness and confidence before returning to the ATP Tour.
Source: Rolex Shanghai Masters
His comeback gathered momentum during the Asian swing, where he claimed the ATP 250 title in Chengdu before producing another outstanding run in Shanghai. Winning two titles in three tournaments marked a significant achievement for a player who had spent months working his way back from injury.
Davidovich Fokina's recent success has also helped him overcome a long-standing difficulty in finals. Before this season, he had lost his first five ATP Tour championship matches. His breakthrough title earlier in the year changed that narrative, and subsequent victories in Chengdu and Shanghai have demonstrated his growing ability to deliver when the stakes are highest.
The Spaniard was quick to credit the people who supported him throughout his recovery, particularly his coaching team and wife, who remained by his side during his time away from competition.
“I cannot describe with words what I achieved,” he said, reflecting on the work that went into his return.
“My team pushing me... they were believing in me. And, of course, my wife supported me every day for two months. It's not easy.”
The Shanghai triumph has also brought a major improvement in his ranking. Davidovich Fokina climbed 13 places to reach a career-high world No. 13, strengthening his position among the leading players on the ATP Tour.
After an intense run of tournaments in Asia, however, the Spaniard is in no rush to look ahead. He intends to take time to celebrate the achievement and enjoy a break with his family before returning to competition.
“I don't want to think about next week. I just want to celebrate,” he said.
For Davidovich Fokina, the Shanghai title represents more than another trophy. It marks the culmination of a challenging recovery, the end of a frustrating run in finals and a new milestone in his career. After overcoming injury and rebuilding his form, he has given himself a strong foundation to pursue further success on the ATP Tour.
