Rafael Nadal has been known to struggle through English interviews throughout his tennis career, but on Sunday it was an interview with the Spanish media that proved problematic for the tennis star. After topping David Nalbandanian in straight sets (7-6 (5), 6-1, 7-5) at the U.S. Open, Nadal was conducting his usual post-match press conference when he suddenly started to shift in his seat. Nadal grimaced and leaned back in his seat before slipping to the floor in agony. The media was cleared out of the room while trainers tended to Nadal, who was suffering from a cramp. After 10 minutes of treatment, Nadal was able to resume his press conference.
“I just have cramping in front and behind,” Nadal explained. “That’s why I was so painful. That’s all.”
Nadal later posted a video to his Facebook page to reassure his fans that he will be fine. Fellow tennis player Andy Murray did his best to quell any concerns about Nadal, noting in his press conference that “I’m sure a lot of people were surprised because it was him that was cramping. But Rafa’s human. I think some people forget that sometimes.”
