"Important to avoid this as a role model" says Nadal about Djokovic throwing and smashing racquet at Olympics

Rafael Nadal is known as a rather mild-mannered tennis player rarely losing his cool and smashing racquets on the court. Asked about Novak Djokovic who had two separate incidents in his Bronze Medal match vs Carreno Busta Nadal said:

“You have to try to avoid them. The image is not the best. It is important to avoid this, especially as a role model for many children. He is the number one in the world and one of best in history."

Being a role model for younger generations is something Nadal is immensely proud of and he does not take it lightly. Djokovic is very similar and the Serbian apologised for his on-court behaviour after the match saying he regretted it. Asked what might have driven Djokovic to react that way, Nadal said it's probably Novak's competitive spirit.

He said:

“It’s strange that someone so successful reacts this way from time to time, but in the end, he’s very competitive and reacts like that.”