"Today isn't my moment, it's Rafa's": Alexander Zverev lost for words in defeating Rafael Nadal for likely final time at Roland Garros
ATPMonday, 27 May 2024 at 18:46
Alexander Zverev is through to the second round at the 2024 French Open as he took down Rafael Nadal potentially for the final time as the Spaniard ponders whether he will return in 2025.
For Zverev though, it wasn't his moment he said and it is all about Nadal. He was left lost for words in lauding the 14-time champion and said that he wasn't going to speak much as a result. He sealed the win 6-3, 7-6, 6-3 and will next play on Wednesday after having the eyes of the sporting world on this tie for the past week.
The fourth seed in Paris gained some revenge though despite not looking seeing it that way for two years ago when he heartbreakingly lost in the semi-finals of the French Open to Nadal. Back then he suffered an ankle injury when it looked like he was going to win.
This put him on the shelf for a long period of time and now he returns two years later as one of the favourites for the tournament. But it was more the achievements of Nadal and potentially dealing out a final win that were the main thoughts of Zverev today.
“To be honest I don’t know what to say. Thank you Rafa from all of the tennis world. It’s such a great honor. I’ve watched Rafa play all my childhood. I was lucky enough to play him as a pro. Lucky enough to play him twice on this beautiful court. I don’t know what to say. Today isn’t my moment. It’s Rafa’s. I’m not gonna speak much. Thank you.”
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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