‘Disrespectful’ Rafa talk flayed
Print Edition
PREDICTING Rafael Nadal’s downfall as he prepares to try and win a record-extending 10th French Open title is disrespectful to the Spaniard, double Roland Garros champion Maria Sharapova said yesterday.
Nadal is without a European claycourt title for the first time in 10 years, a run of form which has prompted many in the sport to write off the Spaniard’s chances of a 10th Paris title.
“Everyone expects so much of Rafa at this time of the year. An individual loses a few matches, someone who’s won this event, what is it nine times, I believe?
“To put so many question marks, I almost think it’s a little bit disrespectful,” former world No. 1 Sharapova of Russia said.
“He’s an incredible champion, and he has no reason to be here doing it again, and his will and motivation to keep doing it and to keep proving to himself that he can do it again is pretty remarkable.
“It’s actually been a little bit sad, because if I was in his shoes I’d be a pretty accomplished and satisfied player. Here he is just grinding away and proving everyone wrong. I think that’s pretty respectful.”
Third seeded Andy Murray insists it would be wrong to write off Nadal.
“It would be stupid to do that especially if the weather gets warm,” said the Scot.
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