Alexander Zverev, who had violently injured his right ankle and had no choice but to stop arm wrestling with Rafael Nadal at Roland-Garros' semi-finals, said that he suffered a "very serious injury" but did not give a specific diagnosis.
"It looks very serious, but the doctors still are analyzing it," stated the world No.3 in face marking, in his first speech since his retirement. The video was posted on social media at half past midnight.
Zverev sustained injuries on a resumption after a forehand strike at the end. Zverev collapsed and rolled on the ground screaming in pain. He was then taken to the hospital in a wheelchair. To formalize his abandonment, he returned to the Center court balancing on crutches. Nadal won 6-6, the score was 7-6 (10/8).
It's not easy for me
The 25-year-old German was pushing the Spaniard for 21 Grand Slam trophies for more than three hours until he injured his ankle.
Zverev continues, "Very difficult moment (Friday), fantastic match up to what happened (...) It is not an easy moment"
Nadal was asked if the extreme wet conditions of Friday made the court, roof closed and slippery. He replied that it was just bad luck.
The court is in good condition.
"I don’t believe there is a subject here. The court is in good condition. The court is in good condition. It was unfortunate. It was an accident. It can happen on any surface, "considered to be the Mallorcan left-hander.
It's very difficult, it's very sad, he had reacted earlier at the court. He was playing an amazing tournament. I know how hard he works to win a Grand Slam. Although he was unlucky, I know he will win in the future.
"Rafa", who was qualified for the Roland Garros final on the 36th of his birthday, will attempt a 14th coronation against the Norwegian Casper Ruud (world No.8).
