Wimbledon 2013: Nadal crashes out in the first round
Rafael Nadal crashed out of the opening round at Wimbledon today, losing in straight sets to Belgian player, Steve Darcis.
The 12-time major champion, fresh from winning a record eighth French Open just two weeks ago, returned to Wimbledon hoping to make amends for last year’s second-round exit to Lukas Rosol.
Ranked 135th in the world, Darcis played the match of his life, beating the Spaniard 7-6 (7/4) 7-6 (10/8) 6-4.
Nadal, 27, looked to be struggling throughout, unable to move off his left leg, with his knee taped up, and struggled to plant his weight down to hit his forehand.
Nadal refused to blame his constant struggles though for his poor play, saying: “It’s not the right day (to discuss my knees).
“I tried my best in every moment, but it was not possible this afternoon.”
“On grass, it’s difficult to adapt when you don’t have a chance to play on the surface before Wimbledon.
“Darcis deserved to win today.”
Darcis, nicknamed ‘Shark’, had come into Wimbledon with just two wins under his belt on the tour all year.
“Nobody was expecting my win today. I don’t know what to say. I’m really happy,” said Darcis.
“Rafa did not play his best match here, it is hard when it is your first match on grass.
“I just wanted to play my own game, coming to the net and not playing far from the baseline. I did not target his knee, tennis is hard enough when you are thinking about yourself.
“I have always played well on grass, perhaps not here where I have had some tough draws, but I am really happy. I do not know what to say.”
