Alexander Zverev
Alexander Zverev withdrew from the French Open semi-final against Nadal with an ankle injury. Zverev was taken off-court in a wheelchair and the crowd was stunned. These are things you never want to see happening in the game.
Zverev’s return meant that Nadal qualified for the final of the tournament. Twitter was passionate about Zverev’s injury, and fans asked him to keep his chin up, commend him for his amazing effort, and wish him a speedy recovery.
Here are the responses.
Nadal was not really happy with the way things were going down after qualifying for the semi-finals.
He said that it was a very difficult moment, and he is deeply saddened for Sikandar. He further added that Zverev was having an incredible tournament and was working really hard to win the Grand Slam. In a heartwarming note, he said that he is going to win not one, but many titles in the future.
In a touching moment, Zverev came back on the court, received a loud standing ovation, and had a special hug with Nadal. He also thanked the crowd for their support.
Nadal’s journey to the semi-finals
Rafael Nadal vs Jordan Thompson – First Round Opponent
The Spaniard started his French Open 2022 campaign against Jordan Thompson. World number 82 Thompson had won just one main draw on clay at ATP level this year. Nadal won over Thompson (6-2, 6-2 6-2).
Rafael Nadal vs Corentin Moutet – Second Round Opponent
Nadal won 3-0 (6-3, 6-1, 6-4) against Corentin Moutet. After this match, the face-off between Nadal and Moutet went 1-0.
Rafael Nadal vs Bottic Zandshulp – Third Round Opponent
It was the first time Nadal and Zandshulp had faced each other on the main tour. Nadal registered an easy (6-3, 6-2, 6-4) victory.
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Rafael Nadal vs Felix Aliassim – Fourth Round Opponent
Felix Auger entered the French Open in good form after reaching the quarterfinals of four consecutive events. The Canadian has also reached at least the quarterfinal stage of the last three majors. However after an interesting match, Rafa won (3-6, 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3) against Bottic.
Rafael Nadal vs Novak Djokovic – Quarterfinal Rivals
Nadal’s arch-rival and defending champion Novak Djokovic ended Rafa’s title defense in the semi-finals last year. However, after a thrilling match, Nadal won the match (6-2, 4-6, 7-2, 7-6) and became the oldest player to reach the semi-finals of the French Open.