Rafael Nadal, surely upset by the defeat of Real Madrid on Wednesday against Chelsea in the semifinals of the Champions League, said at the press conference after his win against Alexei Popyrin at the Mutua Madrid Open that he continues to be “proud” of his team and defended the coach, Zinedine Zidane: “I watched the game. Of course I don't like to lose. With all the difficulties we have had throughout the season, sixty injuries, it is difficult to be where we were until Wednesday, fighting for the two most important competitions we are playing: semifinals Champions and continues fighting for the League. Zidane is one of my favorites one hundred percent without a doubt. A great person, of great values for Real Madrid. I think the season is very good after all the bad luck with the injuries we had. It is difficult to ask for more. If I had to decide, I would have no doubt that Zidane is the right man for the next project. “
He also had a few words for Ronaldo Nazario, who was in the stands of the track Manolo Santana, next to another white former player, Luis Figo: “I always admire the best athletes. I am a sports fan. When I was a child Ronaldo played in Barcelona with my uncle (Miguel Ángel Nadal). He has been one of my favorite soccer players of all time, one of the best I saw play.