Following their intense match at the French Open, Alexander Zverev took a moment to honor Rafael Nadal, expressing profound gratitude and admiration for the tennis legend. In an emotional on-court interview, Zverev highlighted the significant impact Nadal has had on the sport and his own career.
“To be honest, I don’t know what to say. First of all, thank you Rafa from all of the tennis world. It’s such a great honor,” Zverev began, his voice filled with respect and sincerity. The German player reminisced about his childhood, recalling how he grew up watching Nadal’s matches and dreaming of one day facing him on the court.
Zverev acknowledged the privilege of having competed against Nadal, particularly on the revered clay courts of Roland Garros. “I’ve watched Rafa play all my childhood and I was lucky enough to play Rafa when I became a professional. I was lucky enough to play him two times on this beautiful court,” he reflected, highlighting the unique and cherished experiences these matches provided.
Despite the spotlight often being on the victor, Zverev redirected the focus to Nadal, emphasizing that the moment belonged to the Spanish champion. “I don’t know what to say. Today is not my moment, it’s Rafa’s moment, so thank you,” he concluded, applauding Nadal for his enduring excellence and contribution to tennis.
Zverev’s heartfelt words not only underscored his deep respect for Nadal but also resonated with fans and players alike, serving as a touching tribute to one of the greatest athletes in tennis history.
Zverev at the French Open, ranking, and results in 2024
WWLLWWWWLW At the moment ranked no.4, Alexander has achieved a 29-9 record in 2024. The German is playing at the French Open where he managed to beat the world no.275 Rafael Nadal 6-3 7-65 6-3.
The German has won 2 titles in 2024 in Australia and Rome.
The German won 23 titles in his career: 8 on hard courts, 8 on clay courts and 7 on indoor courts. (See the list of his titles)
Zverev is scheduled to play next in Stuttgart (Boss Open). He will start from the main draw that will commence on the 10th of June.
Rafael Nadal in 2024
Currently the world no.275, the Spaniard played his last match on the 27th of May when he was defeated by world no.4 Alexander Zverev 6-3 7-6(5) 6-3 in the 1st round of the French Open (draw).
This season Nadal owns a 7-5 match record.
Nadal will play next at the Wimbledon (Wimbledon). He will begin to play the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 1st of July.
Alexander Zverev and Rafael Nadal fought against each other 11 times. Their head to head is 7-4 for Nadal. Previously, the last time they squared off, Alexander Zverev won 6-3 7-6(5) 6-3 in the 1st round in Paris (French Open) on the 27th of May 2024.
Here are the highlights.
Alexander Zverev and Rafael Nadal |
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