Rafael Nadal’s sister Maribel shares emotional reaction as Martin Landaluce beats Sebastian Korda in Miami Open run (Image via Getty)
Martin Landaluce gave everyone a moment to remember at the 2026 Miami Open. The 20-year-old from Spain, who trains at Rafael Nadal Academy, is now in his first ATP Masters 1000 quarterfinal. He got there after a big fight-back win over Sebastian Korda.
Even more special, Rafael Nadal’s sister, Maribel Nadal, shared a rare public message.
She posted on Instagram, “👏 Congratulations Martin Landaluce 👏 We were so excited to see you play! 🤗.” Landaluce’s run has surprised many people. He came through qualifying and has already beaten three seeded players. Now, suddenly, he is one of the biggest stories in Miami.
Martin Landaluce fights back against Sebastian Korda and opens up about grandmother, Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz support
The fourth-round match against Sebastian Korda did not start well for Martin Landaluce.
Korda, ranked World No. 36, took control early and won the first set 6-2. It looked like the match could end quickly.But things changed in the second set. Korda even had a match point, but he could not finish it. That moment gave Landaluce a chance. The young Spaniard stayed calm, pushed the set into a tiebreak, and won it 7-6(6).From there, the match completely turned. Landaluce played with more belief in the third set and closed it 6-4.
With that, he sealed a 2-6, 7-6(6), 6-4 win and reached his first Masters 1000 quarterfinal.After the match, his emotions were clear. He spoke about his grandmother, who passed away a few months ago.“My grandmother. She (would have been) 101 last week, and she passed away a few months ago. I wanted to give her the victory.”Landaluce also shared how much help he has received from top Spanish players. He said he stays in touch with both Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz.“I speak with Carlitos and Rafa from time to time. I spoke with Rafa in Lled. We had a conversation that helped me a lot. I’ve seen Carlos some days. They’re both really nice people, always willing to support and help Spanish tennis grow.”Rafael Nadal himself recently praised the youngster. He said, “He has taken a step forward. I think he has some spectacular shots and he needs to keep improving some small things that will make a big difference.”Now, Martin Landaluce moves into the quarterfinal where he will face Jiri Lehecka, the No. 21 seed. It will be his biggest test yet, but after this comeback, he has already shown he is ready for big moments.
