Rafael Nadal gave his all to continue playing in Madrid, even arguing with the umpire. After an easy win over America’s 16-year-old Darwin Blanch, Nadal, who has been struggling to find form, faced Australia’s Alex de Minaur in the next round on Manolo Santana court on Saturday (April 27).
Nadal and de Minaur played a rematch of the Barcelona Open, and the Spaniard clinched the first set 7-6(8-6). After a comfortable 2-0 lead, Nadal engaged in a heated argument with the umpire during the next game. He challenged a call that the umpire refused, leading to a heated argument between the two.
Rafael Nadal was engaged in a heated argument with the chair umpire (via IMAGO/X)
The former World No.1 claimed a ball from de Minaur was out, but the linesman did not see it. Nadal then walked to where the ball touched the ground and circled it to show that it was out, gesturing for the review. However, the umpire did not agree with this. He argued that Nadal should have called for the review in time.
I did not see you doing any challenges. You didn't say anything. You have to use the system.The umpire told Rafael Nadal
Nadal, in response, said that he stopped and marked the ball, which clearly showed that he did not want to keep playing and wanted to review.
I just stopped. I have to say challenge? Is that new?Rafael Nadal said
Nadal then called for the supervisor, but he was refused as well. As the point was awarded to de Minaur, Nadal blamed the umpire for not understanding.
Netizens react to Rafael Nadal’s outburst during match against Alex de Minaur
As soon as the incident happened, fans started filling social media with their opinions on whether Rafael Nadal did the right thing or not. Although some defended him, many criticized him for not following the rules.
Some fans also pointed out how Nadal’s behavior was like Novak Djokovic‘s. Check out some reactions here:
Nadal went on to overcome Alex de Minaur this time by winning the match with a scoreline of 7-6(8-6), 6-3. The 37-year-old’s next opponent in the Round of 32 is Argentina’s Pedro Cachin on Monday (April 29).
Nadal hinted that he is playing his last tournament on some soil. This Madrid Open is also the Spaniard’s third tournament of the year, having previously played at Brisbane International and Barcelona Open.
