ITALIAN tennis star Fabio Fognini has suggested that Rafael Nadal was NOT injured in yesterday’s epic Wimbledon quarter-final against Taylor Fritz.
Nadal fought past the American in a tiebreak in the fifth set, but was urged by his family to retire after calling the trainer in the second set.
2
2
The Spaniard, 36, struggled with a tummy problem that is tied up in recent matches and “don’t know” if he will be fit to play Friday again.
Nadal finally overcame Fritz 3-6, 7-5, 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (10-4) in a match that lasted four hours and 21 pulsating minutes
The 22-time Grand Slam winner was then lauded post-match for overcoming an injury to set up a semi-final encounter with Nick Kyrgios†
But Fognini, 35, was not convinced and the former world No9 slammed Nadal on his Instagram story.
Commenting on a post-match headline, Fognini underlined the section that said Nadal had come back from injury, writing: “Sure. Guys stop believing what you read PLEASE!!!.”
Despite Fognini’s apparent accusations, Nadal wore brown bands on the right side of his abdomen to try to alleviate his injury.
He was given a medical timeout in the second set and revealed he is unsure if he will recover in time to beat Kyrgios – who will receive a walkover to the final if Nadal withdraws†
When asked after the five-set thriller whether it was possible to beat the Australian in time, Nadal said: “I don’t know. I’m going to do some more tests.
SUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAY
“It’s hard to know. I’m used to having things and I’m used to being in pain and playing with problems.
“Let’s see. Obviously this is nothing new. I had these feelings for a few days.
“This was without a doubt the worst day. There has been a significant increase in pain and disability.
“I can’t give you a straight answer because if I gave you a straight answer and then something else happens, then I’m a liar.”