Rafael Nadal reaches a record 14th Roland Garros final after Alexander Zverev’s heartbreaking retirement
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Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal defeated Alexander Zverev 7-6(2) 6-6 in their French Open semi-final after the German had to withdraw hurt near the end of the second set due to a serious ankle injury. After collapsing on his ankle, Zverev yelled out in pain, and the severity of his injury was quickly apparent.
With a draining four-set triumph over world No. 1 Novak Djokovic, Nadal advanced to the semi-finals, with a couple of days’ recovery beneficial as he fought with a foot problem that he had hinted could limit his participation in further tournaments this season. Meanwhile, Zverev required four sets to advance from his quarter-final, defeating rising sensation Carlos Alcaraz.
“To see him crying there, was a very tough moment”- Rafael Nadal
Alexander Zverev and Rafael Nadal had a fantastic contest, which lasted over three hours at the time it was called off. Even though it was late in the second set and there was still a lot of tennis to be played, Alexander Zverev rolled his ankle in a very scary way for Nadal at 6-5 in the second set. Many people rushed over, including Nadal, who had a concerned expression on his face, as Zverev yelled out in pain.
Zverev was able to get back on his feet, but he was unable to put any weight on his injured foot and had to be carried away for medical attention. The replay showed a serious extension of the ankle, and he returned with crutches after several minutes, applauded on by the crowd. He shook hands with Nadal and walked away. Hopefully, the injury is not as serious as it appears, and he will be able to return to the court soon.
After his victory, in his on-court interview, the Spaniard said, “It’s very tough, very sad for him [Zverev], honestly. He was playing an unbelievable tournament. He’s a very good colleague on the tour. I know how much he is fighting to win a Grand Slam, but for the moment he was very unlucky. The only thing I am sure is he will win one – much more than one.”
“It’s been a super tough match…it’s difficult to say a lot in this situation. Of course, for me, being in the final of Roland-Garros one more time is a dream, without a doubt, but at the same time that finish, that way. I have been in the small room with Sascha before we came back on court. To see him crying there was a very tough moment. All the very best to him, “ Rafael Nadal concluded.
Also Read: WATCH: “Insane” Rafael Nadal and Alexander Zverev play a mammoth 44-shot rally at the French Open
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Pritha Ghosh
(414 Articles Published)