Rafael Nadal Not Impressed with Height Question: ” ‘IF’ is a Dangerous Word”

World No.2 Rafael Nadal battled past Diego Schwartzman 6-4, 7-5, 6-2 in 2 hours and 47 minutes to reach the semifinals of the US Open 2019 on Wednesday.

The 5ft 7inch Diego Schwartzman is one of the shortest players on the ATP tour. In a post-match press conference, Rafael Nadal was asked whether he would have defeated the Argentinian if he was his size. The Mallorcan however, dismissed the question as he had a problem with the word ‘if’.

The 18-time Grand Slam champion explained that he would only like to answer questions that were based on reality. The 33-year-old said, “The problem is “if”. “If” don’t exist in this world.”

Rafael Nadal also suggested that if he would have been Schwarzman’s size then he would have adapted his game according to his height. He continued, “The word “if” is very dangerous, because if I was his size, maybe I will adapt my game to that size. If he was my size, he will adapt the game to this size.”

The Spaniard further praised the 27-year-old and said, “So I always try to speak in real terms, and he’s one of the best players in the world. When he’s playing well, he’s able to win against everybody. Tonight was for me. Tough match. I’m very happy for the victory.”

The world No.2 is the only player left of the ‘Big 3’ with Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer knocked out in the round of 16 and quarterfinals respectively.

Rafael Nadal, who is bidding for the fourth US Open title of his career will next face Italy’s Matteo Berrettini in his semi-final clash at the Arthur Ashe Stadium on Friday evening.

While on the other hand, next-generation star, Daniil Medvedev will face the former world No.3, Grigor Dimitrov to book a place in the title match at the Flushing Meadows.