Rafael Nadal lost to America’s Frances Tiafoe in the fourth round of the ongoing US Open tournament on Monday at the historic Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The 24-year-old defeated the veteran 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3. Tiafoe used his power game to rattle the stalwart as his forehands were irresistibly hot to handle. He also served exceedingly well during the match and hit 18 aces.
Tiafoe handed Nadal his first loss at a major this year. The youngster also became the first American after James Blake to defeat the Spanish legend. Blake achieved the feat 17 years ago.
A popular journalist, Kurt Streeter, made a revelation on Twitter regarding Nadal’s special gesture following the heartbreaking loss. He said that the 4-time US Open champion answered questions in the post-match presser in a “straightforward way” and gave credit to Tiafoe for the win.
He also wrote that Nadal went to the behind the scene production people in the press room and thanked everyone for their work. Streeter added Nadal does this after every tournament.
The tweets from Kurt Streeter
The two tweets from Kurt Streeter can be seen below. Fans also hailed Rafael Nadal for his humble gesture.
“Rafa Nadal is such a champion, in every way. Answered questions in the post-match presser in straightforward way, as always, and gave credit/congrats to Tiafoe for winning. Once done w/English y Spanish press he walked over to the behind scene production folks in press room (1/2)
“2/2 and thanked each one of for their work during this tournament. Transcriptionist, MC, audio/video. Not for show/I was the only outsider watching. They told me later he does this after each tournament, win or lose. Trust me that ain’t common. Not at all. Only 1. #nadal #usopen”
Rafael Nadal ends the year with two Grand Slam titles added to his trophy cabinet. He won the Australian Open earlier in the year for the second time in his illustrious career and went on to win the French Open for the 14th time.
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