The French Open semi-final between Rafael Nadal and Alexander Zverev saw a disappointing moment as the latter had to withdraw due to a right ankle injury. German World No. 3 was taken off the court in a wheelchair. A few minutes later, he returned to Court Philippe Chattier on crutches, while the audience greeted him with thunderous applause.
Zverev was trailing 7-6, 6-6 before getting injured. Nadal was eventually declared the winner of the semi-finals and reached his 14th Roland Garros final.
The incident had created quite a stir on social media. Fans were disappointed by Zverev’s unfortunate exit, but at the same time, they commended Nadal for expressing concern for his opponent, who was uncomfortable.
the former India batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar And former head coach Ravi Shastri selflessly praised the 21-time Grand Slam champion from their respective Twitter accounts.
“The humility and concern shown by Nadal is what makes him so special,” Tendulkar tweeted.
The humility and concern shown by Nadal is what makes him so special.#Roland Garros pic.twitter.com/t7ZE6wpi47
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) 3 June 2022
In his tweet, Shastri explained how the game can make anyone emotional and also lauded the humility displayed by Nadal.
“This is why sport can make you cry. You will be back Zverev. Rafael Nadal – sportsmanship, humility. Just brilliant and respected,” tweeted Shastri.
This is why the game can make you cry. you will be back @AlexZverev, @Rafael Nadal Sportsmanship, humility. Just awesome and respect #French Open2022 #Roland Garros pic.twitter.com/n5JFNFK7r1
— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) 3 June 2022
Nadal, who is chasing a record 22nd Grand Slam title, will take on Casper Roode in Sunday’s final. In 1930, 37-year-old Bill Tilden became the second oldest person to make the final in Paris, Spain.
“It’s very difficult and very sad for him. He was playing an incredible tournament and he is a very good ally on tour. I know how much he is struggling to win a Grand Slam. At the moment, he was very unlucky I am sure he will win not one, but more than one. I wish him all the best,” Nadal said.
“It was a super tough match. Over three hours and we didn’t even finish the second set. It is one of the biggest challenges on the tour when he is playing like he is today.
“For me, being in the final of Roland Garros is a dream, no doubt, but at the same time, to end it like this … I have been in the small room with Sasha and see her cry like this Have to see what happens. – I wish them all the best,” he said.
(with AFP input)
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