The relationship between Alexander Zverev and Rafael Nadal is not something that we can say has been strong. So, when a strong statement on Rafa’s retirement came from the Greek player, it left many in confusion.
The media went into a frenzy after the retirement of Roger Federer and Serena Williams. And therefore, tennis enthusiasts are always on edge about other major players’ retirement. And this is what the Spanish tennis legend had to say regarding Zverev’s impressionable statement.
Rafael Nadal gives a clarification after Alexander Zverev’s statement
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The 36-year-old tennis legend has had an amazing on-court season in 2022, with not one but two Grand Slam titles under his name. However, along with that, we have also seen persisting injuries that hindered his run in 2022. This might have been the backing behind Alexander Zverev’s bold statement about Nadal’s retirement.
But Nadal had something completely different to say. Referring to Zverev’s statement in an interview, he said, “I don’t know what’s gonna happen. Six months in advance, I can’t really tell.”
Rafa: "I don't know what's gonna happen. Six months in advance, I can't really tell. Obviously, in general, I have a good relationship with Zverev but not as much as to tell him such confidence, if that was the case.
— Genny SS (@genny_ss) January 14, 2023
Furthermore, he said, “Obviously, in general, I have a good relationship with Zverev but not as much as to tell him such confidence, if that was the case.”
That clears two things. Rafael Nadal is not planning to retire, a huge relief for his fans but not so much for his rivals. And the second thing is Alexander Zverev is not that close of a friend of Nadal.
The two met each other during the semi-finals of the Roland Garros. However, Zverev had to drop out in between because of a horrid ankle injury.
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What did Zverev say about Nadal’s retirement?
The tennis fraternity always keeps a watch on performing its tennis legends. And seeing a successful yet injury-laden year let the Greek player make a convincing yet wrong statement.
In an interview with ESPN, Zverev talked about Rafa’s retirement. He assumed that the player will retire after playing his favorite Roland Garros. He even stated that Rafa might just win it and that would be a perfect finish to his career.
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However, Nadal has different plans at the moment. He is all set to begin his new year and has not thought about retiring yet. How long do you think Rafael Nadal will prevail in the tennis realm? Please let us know in the comments below.