Tennis star Millman called ‘nobody’ after Rafa Nadal cancelled practice session

Rafael Nadal set for 2024 farewell after pulling out of French Open

John Millman has revealed that he was brutally dubbed a ‘nobody’ by Indian Wells organisers after Rafael Nadal was forced to cancel a practice session with the Australian. Stewards asked Millman to leave the court after they learned that he still planned to use it despite Nadal’s withdrawal. 

Millman and Nadal had booked to practice together on one of the courts at the Indian Wells complex. However, the legendary Spaniard was forced to pull out of the session due to COVID-19. 

Explaining how difficult it can be for some lesser-known tennis stars to access the privileges of the sport’s biggest names, Millman claims he was told he could no longer use the court as he was a ‘nobody’. He had scheduled to play with a different player after Nadal withdrew, but was informed the court would need to be kept empty. 

“Even if there is a big court available you must ensure that you play with a tournament favourite,” the 33-year-old wrote in his news.com.au column.

Don’t miss…
Mirra Andreeva declares she can win more titles than Federer, Nadal and Djokovic[LATEST]

“I learnt that the hard way at Indian Wells when I managed to secure a premium two-hour slot on centre court with Rafael Nadal. Unfortunately, Covid struck and Nadal had to cancel last minute as he sought a flight home to Spain.

“When the tournament found out that I still planned to use the court with a lesser-known player, they told me that because I was a nobody, I wouldn’t be allowed entry on the court. It’s hard to believe but they’d rather have the court empty than have a few ‘no names’ hit on their precious bitumen.”

It comes after Nadal announced that he plans to retire at the end of 2024. The 22-time Grand Slam champion and former World No 1 has not played since the Australian Open due to a hip injury. 

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Don’t miss…
French Open star in tears as he pulls off epic comeback and crowd chant name[LATEST]
Cameron Norrie gets Wimbledon backing from Jon Bon Jovi[NEWS]
Taylor Fritz shushes French Open fans booing in awkward moment[TENNIS]

“I didn’t make the decision, my body made the decision. To play Roland Garros is impossible,” the 14-time French Open winner said in an update to fans last week. 

“Next year will probably be my last year. That is my idea. If I keep going now I won’t be able to make it happen.”

Nadal is therefore not at Roland Garros this month, with Novak Djokovic having the chance to become the most decorated Grand Slam player of all time. The pair are both on 22 Grand Slams each. 

Source: Read Full Article