Rafael Nadal has hit back at “special treatment” comments from John McEnroe after winning his opening match at the US Open. During the French Open earlier this year, the seven-time Grand Slam champion insisted umpires crack down on the length of time the great Spaniard takes between points.
In 2018, a shot clock was introduced to help increase the speed of the game, with a timeframe of 25 seconds allowed between points at Grand Slams, and 20 for the rest of the tour’s events. At times, the 37-year-old has not served within the allotted time and has even had his first serve taken away as a result.
After his win in the early hours of this morning, Nadal hit back and said he sweats more than most players and rejected claims he receives 'different treatment' from officials. He was taken aback by McEnroe’s comments and even stated he would have a conversation with the American regarding his claim.
“I don’t think I have different treatment from the umpires at all. I don’t think I am receiving different treatment at all," Nadal said. "I don’t understand why John can say that on the TV. I’m going to have a chat with him later.”
Regarding the time he takes between points, the Spaniard added: “I think it's a joke. I went through a lot of warnings through my tennis career. Never for breaking a racquet. Never for doing a mess on court.
"But yes for the time clock. I have a problem that I am sweating a lot. When you are playing during these very humid conditions...the problem for players like me that are sweating that much, you know when you go to pick up a towel, you are going to be in trouble with the time. I don't think I have different treatment from the umpires.”
World number 21 Denis Shapovalov complained about Nadal’s length of time between points following their Australian Open five-set thriller in January. “I think it’s unfair how much Rafa is getting away with,” he said. When asked if he thinks Nadal receives preferential treatment, the 23-year-old said: “Of course - 100% he does, 100%.
“Every other match that I have played, the pace has been so quick because the refs have been on the clock after every single point. I’m completely ready to play and the clock is ticking 3, 2, 1, clicking towards zero.” As with McEnroe’s comments, Nadal claimed the Canadian was wrong in his assumptions before going on to win a record 21st grand slam title at Melbourne Park. Fast forward seven months, the world number three is back at Flushing Meadows for the first time since 2019 and is attempting to win his 23rd major.
He was given a stern test by Australia’s Rinky Hijikata, but eventually powered through 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 under the lights at Arthur Ashe stadium, to set up a mouth-watering clash with Fabio Fognini in round two.
