The immediate aftermath of the US Open final was almost as entertaining as the five-set classic that came before it! Almost.
In a heartwarming moment, Rafael Nadal, completely overwhelmed after a 7-5 6-3 5-7 4-6 6-4 win over Daniil Medvedev in four hours and 51 minutes, sobbed at the side of the court as his 19 Grand Slam wins were shown on the big screen.
A matter of minutes later, a section of the notoriously venomous US Open crowd were up to their old tricks as they booed chair umpire Ali Nili – who handed Nadal three time violations in the match – but the Spaniard was quick to applaud him.
The scenes were reminiscent of the womens final a year earlier when boos rained down on the stage – although Carlos Ramos was not given his gift on court after an infamous row with Serena Williams. Its something that hopefully wont become a tradition at the final Grand Slam of the year.
For love of the game
@RafaelNadal | #USOpen pic.twitter.com/c5orHpdYJD
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 9, 2019
RA-FA! RA-FA!@RafaelNadal | #USOpen pic.twitter.com/57v3doWuaj
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 9, 2019
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And then, up steps Medvedev.
He may have lost the match but he delivered what has to go down as one of the greatest post-match speeches of all-time
Medvedev: First of all, I just want to congratulate Rafa. 19 Grand Slam titles. Something unbelievable. Outrageous.
The way you are playing, its a big joke. Its very tough to play against you.
Humor.
Adulation.
Respect.Congratulations on a remarkable two weeks, @DaniilMedwed!#USOpen pic.twitter.com/oKOkmboQTc
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 9, 2019
When I was looking on the screen and they were showing No. 1, No. 2… No. 19. I was like, if I would win, what would they show?!
Again, what you have done for tennis in general, I think 100 million kids have watched you and want to play tennis. Congratulations.
Asked how he was able to turn the match around having been two sets and a break down, he humorously added: In my mind I was actually already ok. What do I say in the speech? Its going to be soon in 20 minutes…
Losing in three sets in the first final. Trying to give a fight but not really and so I was like, “Ok I have to fight for everyRead More – Source
