Rafael Nadal Says Underarm Serve is Not ‘Disrespectful’ After Facing One at French Open 2020

Rafael Nadal recently defeated Mackenzie McDonald in the second round of the French Open 2020. He again proved why he is called the ‘king of clay’ by completely dominating the match, winning 6-1, 6-0, 6-3. However, it was the underarm serve of McDonald which gained attention during the match. In the post-match press conference, Nadal had some interesting remarks regarding this issue.

Asked about his stance on underarm serve, a thing that Alexander Bublik is renowned for, Nadal said that it was a part of the game.

“If he’s winning, it’s a good tactic. If he’s losing, it’s a bad tactic. That’s all. For example, for Mackenzie, [it] was not a good tactic. For Bublik, if it works, is a good tactic,” said Nadal.

Despite his humiliating defeat against Diego Schwartzman at the Italian Open 2020, Rafa has looked amazing at Roland Garros.

Read More: Top 10 Underarm serves of the decade

“I don’t see it as disrespectful”- Rafael Nadal on the Underarm Serve

Underarm service has been a never-ending debate in tennis. While according to rules, it is not something that is disallowed, some players believe that it should not be a part of the sport. When asked whether he views the underarm serve as something disrespectful, Nadal replied that it was a tactical thing.

“It’s a part of the game. I don’t see disrespectful or not. If you do it with the goal to improve your game, or like a tactical thing, then, I support 100%. If you do to disrespect the opponent, it’s not a good thing,” said Nadal.

Nadal argued that since it’s a part of the rule, there is not a question of not practicing it. But he urged other players to use it in a good way.

“Everyone knows internally if you are doing it in a good or a bad way. For me [there] is no discussion about it. [It] is a part of the rules. You can do it. It’s about yourself. If you feel good doing it or not,” concluded the Spaniard.

The 19-time Grand Slam winner will next face Stefano Travaglia in the third round of the tournament. Although the conditions are not in his favor, Nadal has played beautifully so far. Can he keep his momentum going and win 1 more French Open title?

Also Read: What do top players think about the underarm serve?