Nadal downs Sonego in straight sets

Rafael Nadal defeated Lorenzo Sonego in straight sets to reach the fourth round of Wimbledon at the Centre Court on Saturday. Later, he apologised for his conduct as the 36-year-old was accused of poor sportsmanship.

Nadal looked superb on the grass-court as he took down the 27th seed with a 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 win.

The Spaniard called over Sonego during the third set and the act did not go down well with the Italian.

“A player should not call his opponent on the net. You cannot do that at Wimbledon. Nadal should have just had a word with the umpire. He distracted me,” he said after the match.

Nadal was asked about what he said to Sonego and he replied, “Not spicy at all, I just from the bottom of my heart I didn’t make it in a negative way.

“I feel sorry if I bothered him but I did it in a right way. I feel really bad now if I bothered him so I feel sorry for that. That’s it, I will talk to him after but this is not a problem.

“Probably been my best match here without a doubt during the Championships, against the most difficult player I faced. I have been able to raise my level, super happy for that and wishing Lorenzo Sonego the best for the season he is a great player on grass I think he has a great future here.”

The 22-time Grand Slam winner was also asked about his fitness and he said, “It’s always a tricky thing.

“I went through some tough injuries in my career but in some way I feel very lucky that I am still able to play at my age. I never thought that would happen 10 years ago so I feel lucky so thanks to everyone who has supported to me in this journey.”

Nadal will face Van de Zandschulp in the fourth round.