Rafa Roundup: Nadal comments on Zverev’s violent outburst in Acapulco

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“It’s unfortunate, without a doubt,” Nadal said. “I feel sorry for him as I have a good relationship with Alexander.

“In the end, he deserves the sanction because you can’t act in this way.

“I think Sascha is aware of that and I hope this will serve as a lesson for him and for other young players who sometimes lose control on the court.”

There has been suggestions that Zverev could face a suspension and while not being drawn to comment on what sanction is handed down, Nadal felt punishments must be seen to act as a deterrent.

“I am not going to enter into what is or is not fair in terms of sanction,” Nadal said. “But in the end you have to stop that type of attitude from becoming fashionable.”

Speaking about Rafa, the German stated, “Rafa showed once again that he is a fighter, a champion, a tremendous personality to play the way he did and come back from a final that was very complicated. He is now the most successful tennis player in history, something that should be highlighted since a few weeks ago there were three and now there is only one.”

The 54-year-old added, “I am sure that this will affect Novak and Roger, both will want to win another Grand Slam or even two since Rafa will be the big favorite for the next Roland Garros.

Though happy to be back on tour, Nadal says he will be careful about where and when he plays. The Spaniard is not concentrating on the ATP rankings, where he’s spent more than 200 weeks at No. 1.

“I have other goals, and I’m not going to pursue it because it would be an error to pursue it,” said Nadal, currently ranked No. 5. “There are a lot of young players prepared to play all the events they need to fight for it. I have to be more selective and I’m not going to alter my calendar, not to fight for more points in the rankings.”

Nadal is next scheduled to compete at Indian Wells, but has not confirmed for Miami.

VIDEO: Match highlights – Nadal vs Kozlov

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10 comments

  1. Zverev could face additional penalties as his incident is still under review.

    “Following ATP’s withdrawal of Alexander Zverev from this week’s tournament in Acapulco due to unsportsmanlike conduct, the player has received the following on-site penalties; verbal abuse – 20,000 US dollars, unsportsmanlike conduct – 20,000 US dollars.

    “This represents the maximum fine per each violation. Zverev also forfeits full prize money of 31,570 US dollars (singles and doubles), as well as all ATP rankings points from the event.
    “A further review of the incident will now follow per ATP rules.”

  2. “But in the end you have to stop that type of attitude from becoming fashionable.” Spot on Rafa! Love the straight talking, no nonsense comment on abusive behaviour.

    Now do your thing against Tommy Paul.

    • Well said Rafa – your fans are so proud that we can hold our heads high because you have never “lost it” on or off the court despite your many heartbreaking losses and I can say I have seen all those matches!

  3. Rafa and his team, together they will make the smart decision for Rafa.
    Enjoy tennis, enjoy life, Rafa.❤️ We are lucky to have you, champion on and off court.🙏

  4. It is a privilege to witness Rafa playing, enjoying, and soaking in every moment. He is truly the greatest ambassador for tennis, and an honourable human being. He can pick and choose his
    tournaments. He has suffered immeasurably, but the comeback is glorious💪❤️‍🔥🙏

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