“It’s a B*tch!” Rafael Nadal sympathises with Novak Djokovic over U.S Open disqualification

“It’s a B*tch!” Rafael Nadal sympathises with Novak Djokovic over U.S Open disqualification
Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal

The World No.1 Novak Djokovic and World No.2 Rafael Nadal clashed earlier this month at the French Open. Nadal came mustered an astounding level of play to vanquish Djokovic 6-0, 6-2, 7-5. Further, the Spaniard laid claim to his 20th Grand Slam title and levelled up with long-time rival and pal, Roger Federer’s record. 

However, Djokovic stands firm with 17 Grand Slam titles to his name. The most recent addition to this impressive collection came about at the Australian Open at the start of this year. Many believe that this ’17’ would’ve been an ’18’ if the U.S Open debacle hadn’t occurred. 

Related: US Open 2020: “She doesn’t have to go to the hospital for this,” Novak Djokovic after hitting the line judge

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Rafael Nadal comments on Novak Djokovic‘s disqualification

Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal

Due to the ongoing pandemic, the tennis-season in 2020 was significantly cut short. Wimbledon did not take place for the first time since its cancellation during World War. However, the handful of tournaments that were held, proved plentiful in terms of the thrill induced. 

The moment that lies on the top of this pile is the disqualification that Novak Djokovic was handed at the U.S Open. The Serb hit a ball out of frustration during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta. This ball which struck from Djokovic’s racquet, unfortunately, found its way towards a line judge’s throat. No argument or cases was appealed, and in an instant, the dream to make his 17 Grand Slams 18, was destroyed. 

Many tennis professionals held the belief that the default handed to Djokovic was quite harsh. In contrast, though Rafa highlighted the ‘bad luck’ the situation was, he remained adamant on the fact that this was correct procedure according to the rules. 

The World No.2 Rafael Nadal gave his opinion on the aforementioned controversy. During an interview held in his Rafa Nadal academy, he seemed to sympathise with the Serbian. He stated, “When I saw Djokovic’s ball I thought he was out. It’s the height of bad luck and it’s a b*tch. The rule is clear. The referee has no other option.”

Also Read: “Rafael Nadal and I have had our differences” Nick Kyrgios comments on his ongoing-feud with Rafa