Jan 24 (IndiaToday) – While playing his 2nd round match at the Australian Open 2020, Rafael Nadal accidentally ended up hitting a ballgirl, but the World No. 1, not only comforted the little girl with a peck on the cheek after the incident but also went on to meet her and her family after his match.
On Thursday, during his match against Federico Delbonis at the Rod Laver Arena, one of Nadal’s returns went wide of the court and hit the ball girl positioned near the chair umpire. The 19-time Grand Slam champion quickly apologized to the girl and gave her a kiss on the cheek.
After experiencing his “scariest moment” on the tennis court, Nadal also met the girl, Annita, and her family and shared a picture with her on social media, saying, “so happy she is well.”
“Had the chance to meet her and her family today. So happy she is well after the scariest moment I’ve had on a tennis court. Annita is a brave girl!”
After outclassing Federico Delbonis in straight sets — 6-3, 7-6(4), 6-1–Nadal also offered his sympathies to Annita.
“For her [it was] probably was not a good moment,” Nadal said. “I was so scared for her honestly. The ball was quick and straight onto her,” Nadal had said.
“She is a super brave girl.
“It was honestly one of the most scary moments I have on the tennis court and I have a scary memory from Wimbledon many years ago.”
Nadal, who is vying for his 2nd title in Melbourne will face compatriot Pablo Carreño Busta in the 3rd round.
